12/9/2011 - KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFNS) -- With the holidays around the corner, officials at the Air Force Safety Center here remind Airmen to use sound risk management during the upcoming festivities both on- and off-duty.
"As we celebrate this holiday season, please be vigilant and remember to be a good wingman for all those in your family - both your personal family and your Air Force family," said Maj. Gen. Greg Feest, the Air Force chief of safety. "Enjoy the holidays, spend time with family and friends and remember that safety never takes a holiday."
Bill Parsons, the Air Force chief of ground safety, said, "We applaud all Airmen for our safety successes the past two years - there have been no fatal motor vehicle accidents between Christmas and New Year's. We kick off the new year with a 'Quest for Zero' initiative where we hope to reduce preventable on-duty fatal mishaps. Keep up the good work and help us have another safe year."
Parsons' safety tips during the holiday season:
-- Manage your stress - plan head, be realistic and take a break if you need it;
-- Winter driving - use sound risk-management practices if you are traveling and evaluate the hazards like weather, driving at night or driving long distances in a short amount of time;
-- Winter sports - never ski or snowboard alone, wear protective gear, know your abilities and stay hydrated;
-- Responsible drinking - don't drink and drive; and
-- Prevent complacency - get plenty of rest, don't rush through tasks and decrease your stress.
"We want everyone to enjoy the holiday season, but more importantly, we want everyone to be safe," Feest said. "Enjoy the holidays, and thank you for your service and your commitment to the Air Force."
