Safety in mind, riders put knees to the breeze

  • Published
  • By Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As the cool air clears and warm weather approaches, more than 245 of McConnell's Airmen will take to the streets to enjoy the fresh summer air.

This seasonal trend is one topic that is being analyzed as part of the Critical Days of Summer Program here. This fiscal year, the Air Force has suffered from seven motorcycle fatalities, a statistic the service tries to minimize through education.

"To keep this number low, we need to continue to educate all riders on the possible hazards and instill a safe attitude," said Staff Sgt. Latrica Davis, 22nd Air Refueling Wing ground safety technician.

For example, Airmen who ride on base are required to wear a full or half helmet, goggles or glasses if wearing a half shell helmet, long sleeves, pants, full fingered gloves, over-the-ankle shoes and brightly colored outer garment or reflective vest--all of which is also known as personal protective equipment.

Though the amount of PPE items may seem significant, the benefits of using them are immeasurable, said Sergeant Davis.

"PPE is important when it comes to riding a motorcycle because fitting your gear properly and wearing it correctly can save your life or prevent you from suffering from any type of life threatening injury."

Another item that Airmen must possess is the Motorcycle Safety Foundation card for military members at all times when riding and government employed civilians when riding on base.

In addition to proper PPE, Airmen must also complete a series of safety classes taught by the 22nd ARW safety office. There are currently three classes available including the Beginner Rider Course, the Experienced Rider Course and the Sports Bike Course. The MSF card is earned after completing the course that reflects the riders' skill.

"Once an individual has attended the 22 ARW MSF classes, they are made more aware of the potential hazards that exist within the local area," said Sergeant Davis. "There are many different exercises in the class that help individuals learn the appropriate reaction when approaching a possibly dangerous situation."

The safety office hopes the course graduates will take the motorcycle safety knowledge they learn during the class to the road.

"The classes provided at McConnell are beneficial because of the great detail that they go into," said Staff Sgt. Julius Reed, 22nd Operations Support Squadron aircraft flight equipment NCOIC. "I am more knowledgeable about safety because of these classes and know more about safety, which has helped improved my riding."

For more information on motorcycle safety, call the wing safety office at 759-3216. For a complete list of PPE requirements, consult Air Force Instruction 91-207, The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety program, Paragraph 3.4.2.4.