Commentaries

Senior leaders stress holiday safety

  • Published
  • By Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody
  • Headquarters, U.S. Air Force
The winter holidays provide an opportunity to relax and celebrate with our families and friends. It's also an opportunity to re-establish a proper work-life balance by enjoying seasonal festivities and activities.

We work diligently all year to reduce mishaps and we should not ignore those efforts during the much-deserved break. Sadly, we lost five Airmen in off-duty mishaps between Nov. 22 and Jan. 2. Every Airman, uniformed and civilian, must take a few minutes to include sound risk management in their winter and holiday plans. The same risk management principles that keep us safe on duty are just as effective when traveling and enjoying recreational activities off duty.

Think through every plan and have a backup plan for contingencies. Pay close attention to weather conditions, remain vigilant and maintain proper awareness of your surroundings. Use your training and common sense to do the right thing. If you see someone in need, help them. If you are struggling, make the right choice and seek help from a friend, a supervisor or a professional.

We are the best Air Force on the planet because of who we are, how we approach challenges and what we do for our families and fellow Airmen. The Air Force and the nation need every Airman to be ready and available to respond when called.

Your family, friends, and the nation, depend on you to make safety a priority in your winter and holiday plans. While enjoying the season, take care of yourself and take care of each other.

Commentaries - Articles

Senior leaders stress holiday safety

  • Published
  • By Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody
  • Headquarters, U.S. Air Force
The winter holidays provide an opportunity to relax and celebrate with our families and friends. It's also an opportunity to re-establish a proper work-life balance by enjoying seasonal festivities and activities.

We work diligently all year to reduce mishaps and we should not ignore those efforts during the much-deserved break. Sadly, we lost five Airmen in off-duty mishaps between Nov. 22 and Jan. 2. Every Airman, uniformed and civilian, must take a few minutes to include sound risk management in their winter and holiday plans. The same risk management principles that keep us safe on duty are just as effective when traveling and enjoying recreational activities off duty.

Think through every plan and have a backup plan for contingencies. Pay close attention to weather conditions, remain vigilant and maintain proper awareness of your surroundings. Use your training and common sense to do the right thing. If you see someone in need, help them. If you are struggling, make the right choice and seek help from a friend, a supervisor or a professional.

We are the best Air Force on the planet because of who we are, how we approach challenges and what we do for our families and fellow Airmen. The Air Force and the nation need every Airman to be ready and available to respond when called.

Your family, friends, and the nation, depend on you to make safety a priority in your winter and holiday plans. While enjoying the season, take care of yourself and take care of each other.