Incirlik prepares for “Critical Days” Published May 27, 2010 By Master Sgt. Justin Grant 39th Air Base Wing safety office INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- The 15 weeks between Memorial Day and Labor Day kicks off the "101 Critical Days of Summer" campaign across the Department of Defense. All branches of service typically experience an increase in fatalities as a result of off-duty private motor vehicle and off-duty recreational activity mishaps. Last year the Air Force experienced 18 fatalities during the campaign; six more than 2008. There were nine private motor vehicle fatalities, five motorcycle fatalities, two drowning fatalities, one small airplane crash and one miscellaneous fatality. The summer campaign is very important but safety is important 365 days of the year. Incirlik's goals for the summer and the remainder of 2010 are zero on-duty fatalities and zero off-duty PMV and recreational mishap fatalities. This year's safety campaign also celebrates the Year of the Air Force Family as safety is equally important for our family members. And during the summer safety campaign the 39th Air Base Wing safety office will offer events and opportunities that target our Airmen and their family members. Like many other countries in Europe, Turkey offers a wide range of off-duty sports and recreational activities for our community. We have an opportunity to participate in family activities such as sightseeing, hiking and camping. All are within driving distance from our location. Another popular attraction during the summer months is the local beaches. The beaches offer many water recreational activities ranging from fishing trips, boat parties, jet skis, snorkeling , scuba diving and cliff diving to name a few. Over the last 10 years, the Air Force has lost at least one member annually to water related activities. So far this year the Air Force has lost seven members to sports and recreational activities; two were water related. While these activities are fun, they can be dangerous and pose a threat to both novice and experienced participants. Inexperience, poor judgment, peer pressure, alcohol, speed and distraction are normally the main contributor to injury, or even death, to our Airmen during the summer months. In most cases, when a mishap resulted in injury or death it was preventable. As an Air Force we embrace lessons learned and apply them to future experiences, improve mission capability and enhance safety. We all must be cognizant the dangers of a mishap is always present. Safety does not quit when we are off-duty or once we leave the main gate. We must exercise personal and operational risk management, use sound judgment, be a great wingman and apply what we learn by practicing safety in our on and off-duty activities. The 39th ABW safety office would like to remind you to take personal safety seriously. Know the limits of your personal protective equipment and practice using them. Safety equipment works, just use it! Your life is in your own hands. Safety is an attitude. How is yours? Upcoming safety events for June: June 22-23 -- Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course June 24 -- Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course (sports bike) June 26 -- Children Adults Bicycle Safety Roadshow Contact the wing safety office at 676-SAFE for more information.