Safety officials help curb motorcycle fatalities

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFPN) -- After four more motorcycle deaths in the Air Force were added to the “101 Critical Days of Summer” fatality toll recently, safety office officials here have taken steps to make sure everyone complies with the requirement to wear safety gear.

People from the 375th Airlift Wing’s safety office, along with security forces Airmen and motorcycle safety instructors, recently stood post at the gates during rush hour to ensure motorcycle drivers coming onto the base were wearing the proper equipment.

Motorcyclists who were not in compliance were given a briefing on the necessary clothing and equipment.

During the first day, 72 percent of the cyclists met Department of Defense and Air Force requirements.

Names of the motorcycle riders, whether in compliance or not, are being forwarded to their squadron commander to increase awareness and ensure 100-percent compliance.

"It's hard to reach out and touch all the riders on the base, but this is a chance where we can (identify and) educate them on what's the required gear and wear," said Marilee Reuter, ground safety manager.

The inspections continued in base housing areas. Most motorcyclists responded positively and were receptive to the need to have proper equipment and to wear safety gear properly.

During the “101 Critical Days of Summer” the Air Force death toll as of July 31 is 24 -- a rate higher than the past two years at this same point in the campaign. (Courtesy of Air Mobility Command News Service)