Wing safety briefs on hot topics Published April 6, 2008 By Lt. Col. Joe Hayslett 36th Wing Safety ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Hafa Adai! This week 36th Wing Safety would like to cover several topics very briefly as we enter the spring season and look forward to summer just around the corner. First, tropical storms in this part of the world form quickly and build intensity at a rapid pace. Our location is conducive to storm production and while I have yet to experience a full blown typhoon on Guam, I have experienced many while living in Okinawa several years ago. Typhoons are unpredictable and can change course rapidly. Their intensity is deceiving to anyone who has never experienced 100 mile per hour wind and rain for nearly 16 straight hours, or viewed the tidal surge of 25-foot waves as they crash the shoreline. Some things you can do now to prepare yourself for the upcoming season are as follows: - Learn proper procedures to service, close and lock your shutters - Ensure your typhoon locker is stocked with food - Stock plenty of bottled water, enough for one week minimum - If you have a small child, purchase formula or powered milk - Verify your generator is in proper working condition - Have extra batteries for flashlights and lanterns when the power goes out - Maintain a small toolbox with a variety of hand tools to help with repairs Do not wait until the last minute or when a storm is identified to stock these items as supplies are limited on Guam. More information on how to prepare for typhoons can be found through the Airman and Family Readiness Center (366-8136), Unit Safety Representative, Wing Ground Safety Manager (366-SAFE), and Civil Engineer Readiness (366-4298). Next, the never-ending summer on Guam allows us and our children to enjoy outdoor activities every day. In base housing, wheeled transport safety has become an issue recently. Children on skates, skateboards, "heelys", and scooters are performing these activities without the proper personal protective equipment. "Heelys" are considered skates and must conform to the same PPE standards as any other type of skate or skateboard. When wearing these shoes ensure you have proper head gear as well as elbow and knee protection. Additionally, "heelys" should not be worn to school, within shopping areas or areas where skates, skateboards and scooters are prohibited. Headphones or earbuds will not be worn while performing these activities. Bicycle safety is also a concern as children ride throughout the base and especially in base housing. Please watch for children riding their bikes and areas between parked cars or stationary objects from which they could dart out into roadways. Bicycle riders must also follow the guidelines for helmets, lighting on the bicycle, and reflective gear while riding. Bicycles may not be rode on the sidewalk and should follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles while riding on base. Running and walking on base have rules as well and must be followed to maintain a safe environment. Runners and walkers cannot wear headphones or earbuds at any time other than running or walking on the quarter mile track or Arc Light track. Yes, the sidewalks are off limits to headphones or earbuds as well. Also, reflective gear must be worn at night when running. Currently this is for on-duty personnel but the regulation is in coordination for update to include off-duty personnel as well. If running at night, get your reflective gear, the lighting is dim and makes it difficult for motorists to see pedestrians. Furthermore, here's a quick synopsis on formation running. The same rules above apply. Additionally, each formation must be at least 10 people and cannot be any wider than two elements with one leader and four road guards (two in front, two in rear). Formations will run with the flow of traffic while single runners or small groups must run against traffic in single file. Caroline's Avenue, Santa Rosa, Arc Light Blvd (with the exception of the monthly wing run), and Plumeria are off-limits to formation runs as well as base housing. Lastly, your physical training gear does count as reflective gear but you must wear it in accordance with established standards. Remember when driving a motor vehicle to always follow posted speed limits and never let distractions such as cell phone calls, text messaging, DVD player, loud music, food, drinks, kids and conversations with friends distract you from your primary purpose of operating your vehicle safely. If faced with these distractions, pull over safely and alleviate the situation before continuing your trip. Hand held cell phone usage is strictly prohibited on base and carries a 30 day driving suspension if caught. Driving while using a hand held cell phone has been proven to be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Never drink and drive. Even the smallest amount of alcohol can have detrimental effects on your reaction times and ability to avoid accidents. If caught driving under the influence, you risk your career, your life and the life of another individual(s). Use a designated driver, call Airmen Against Drunk Driving, call a taxi, call a shuttle, stay at a friend's house or get a room at a hotel and spend the night. All are cheaper and safer alternatives than risking your life, the life of someone else or your career. You can save your own life. Lastly, I would like to take a moment and state that whether you are the servicemember, spouse, child or friend of a service member, "Thank you" for the sacrifices you have made to serve our nation. You make the difference and we in the 36th Wing Safety appreciate all you do. Have a great time here on Guam!