AMC offers suggestions for a safe spring Published April 7, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Amber R. Kelly-Herard Air Mobility Command Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- After one of the coldest winters on record, spring is finally here, but weather changes also bring certain safety hazards. Air Mobility Command Safety is launching their Spring Safety Campaign to remind Airmen of common safety issues as Airmen go outside and enjoy the warmer weather. "After such a long and cold winter for most of AMC, I know we're all anxious to get back outside, but rushing to get outside without taking the proper safety precautions is a recipe for disaster," said Pat Nevitt, AMC Safety Occupational Safety and Health manager. "Often times a few minutes of extra planning can make all the difference between having a 'good' or 'bad' time." He said one of the best precautions before heading outdoors is to take is having the proper protective equipment, on and off the job. "Whether you're taking your motorcycle or bicycle out after being stored for months, going to play sports with some friends or even working outdoors in the heat, it's important to remember your Personal Protective Equipment," said Nevitt. Some PPE safety tips include: - Always wearing an American National Standards Institute approved and proper-fitting helmet - Wearing hearing protection, safety goggles and closed-toe shoes when mowing the lawn - Wearing sunscreen and clothing to protect skin from the sun - Wearing a life vest while riding in a boat Spring weather could also mean thunderstorms. "Before lightning strikes, have an emergency plan in advance," said Nevitt. "If you happen to be outdoors during lightning, avoid water and try to find shelter. If nothing is available, crouch down, put your feet together and make yourself as small as possible." Another spring safety concern is road construction. "There may be a lot of road work to fix winter damage," said Nevitt. "Follow the posted construction speed limits and directions of the workers. Your actions in these construction zones are critical to ensure the safety of the workers, so stay focused to save lives." Wayne Bendall, AMC Safety Occupational Safety and Health manager, agreed and added that safety is an important focus for spring. "So far AMC is doing better safety-wise than last year," said Bendall. "Make it part of your spring cleaning routine to identify and correct safety hazards in your surroundings, to help maintain a safe spring." AMC lost its first Airman during the spring initiative in a car crash March 15; AMC has also lost four Airmen so far this fiscal year in vehicle accidents.