Holiday travel advice for Team McConnell

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Zach Anderson
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  With many members of Team McConnell planning to hit the road for the holidays over the next week, the members of McConnell's safety team have some advice for Airmen to keep in mind.

Lt. Col. Barry Jones, 931st Air Refueling Group Chief of Safety and 22nd Air Refueling Wing Interim Chief of Safety, said that safety should be a top priority for all Airmen during this time of year.

"The holiday season is a very busy time for Airmen who are traveling to see their families and friends," said Jones. "When traveling, safety and proper planning is paramount. We want to ensure that our Airmen return back to McConnell after the holidays safe and sound. That's the most important thing."

Master Sgt. Felicia Sanders, 931st Air Refueling Group Ground Safety Manager, said the biggest concern is Airmen who will be making road trips.

"The number one hazard during the holiday season is road travel," said Sanders. "That is the mishap we look at and try to mitigate the most."

Sanders said taking some basic precautions can go a long way in ensuring safe travel.

"Make sure and inspect your vehicle before you hit the road," she said. "Ensure it is winterized properly. Check your tires, check the tire pressure, and make sure they are properly inflated. Check your ignition and fuel systems, belts, hoses, fluids, wiper blades, heater, defroster, battery, lights, and brakes before traveling long distance. And make sure you have emergency items on hand so that you are prepared if there is a mishap."

Sanders said items such as cell phones, jumper cables, paper maps in case GPS signal is lost, a shovel, a tow strap, a first aid kit, a flash light, extra batteries, an ice scraper, matches, blankets, extra socks, gloves, snacks and water are all good things to have on hand while traveling.

Jones said proper planning is key to safe holiday travel as well.

"It's important to look at the weather conditions before you go," he said. "Map out your route and then ensure you have plenty of time to get there. Don't try to rush everything at the last minute. It's a much better idea to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. If you do end up running behind, remember, it's better to arrive late and safely than not to arrive at all because you were in an accident."

Jones and Sanders referenced "Safe n' Sound, All Year Round," which is the theme for this year's Air Force Holiday/Winter safety campaign, which runs from Nov. 16, 2012 to Jan. 2, 2013.

""The information provided in 'Safe n' Sound, All Year Round' provides Airmen with tools to implement sound risk management into all their winter and holiday activities," said Sanders.

For more information on "Safe n' Sound, All Year Round," visit the Air Force Safety Center website.