AMC's Critical Days of Summer campaign begins May 25

Air Mobility Command's Critical Days of Summer 2012 safety campaign begins at 4 p.m. on May 25 and ends at 7 a.m. on Sept. 4.

The objective of the 2012 campaign is to call attention to the tragic loss and/or injury of Airmen during the summertime. In addition, the campaign focuses on raising understanding that safety is personal for all; decisions affect not only those serving, but also families, friends and co-workers. This year, the Air Force theme for the Critical Days of Summer campaign is "Safety -- It's Personal!"

The majority of summer mishaps are a result of poor risk management. "In many of these situations, its co-workers and friends who are the final barrier between a good time and life impacting disaster," said Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr., AMC commander.

Ninety-two Air Force members lost their lives over the past five summers, 10 were AMC members. Over 70 percent of these mishaps listed both alcohol and excessive speed as causal factors. A significant threat to safe vehicle operations continues to be distracted driving. Texting, talking on a cell phone, or adjusting the radio take your focus away from the road and can lead to a serious mishap.

"Sadly, we continue to lose more Airmen on the roadways than anywhere else, including combat. The recurring themes are excessive speed, alcohol, fatigue and failure to use seat belts. If you ride a motorcycle, like I do, your risk increases exponentially. Specialized training courses are available that will increase your skills and ability to recognize potential hazards. Seatbelts and helmets improve your chances of survival in a mishap. Water sports are the second leading cause of accidental death -- again alcohol and fatigue are common factors. We must reverse this trend. That starts by taking your safety and that of your family members personally," said Chief Master Sgt. Richard A. Kaiser, AMC command chief.

There were also 128 non-fatal accidents in AMC last summer, most occurred off-duty and involved various outdoor activities such as water sports, backyard cookouts, and other recreational events.

The campaign will provide safety information using a series of modules that highlight safety concerns during each of the 15 weeks of the campaign. Following is a break down:

-- Module 1: "Wingmen: It's Personal -- Take Care of Each Other" (Week one)

-- Module 2: "Sober is Safer: Thinking Then Drinking" (Week two)

-- Module 3: "Private Motor Vehicles-4 - Slow Down; Pay Attention" (Week three)
                       All-Terrain Vehicles (Week four)

-- Module 4: "Trip Planning" (Week five)

-- Module 5: "Celebrate the 4th - Live to see the 5th" (Week six)

-- Module 6: "PMV-2 Ride Smart"
                       Motorcycle (Week seven) 
                       Bicycle (Week eight)

-- Module 7: "Enjoy the Outdoors Safely" (Week nine)
                       "Barbecue Safety Tips" (Week 10)
                       "Beat the Summer Heat" (Week 11)
                        "Summer Weather" (Week 12)

-- Module 8: "Sports & Recreation, Not Wreck" (Week 13)

-- Module 9: "Water Safety -- Have Fun & Be Safe" (Week 14)

-- Module 10: "Countering Fatigue" (Week 15)

"AMC's goal during this summer is zero fatalities. We need every Airman to be involved -- commanders, supervisors, families and individuals," said Johns. "Let's enjoy the summer, but remember that our safety matters to family, friends, and co-workers. 'Safety -- It's Personal!'"