Live to Play, Play to Live: 101 Days of Summer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Amber Russell
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The long daylight hours of summer encourage us to jam as many of our favorite pastimes into our day as possible. With our full schedule, or lazy afternoons, the 101 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the perfect opportunity to get the most out of the summer and do so safely.

With the help of the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign presented by Incirlik's Safety office, we'll be able to do just that.

"The 101 CDS campaign is intended to remind us we can't afford to lose focus on safety, on or off the job," said Tech. Sgt. Michael Rogers, 39th Air Base Wing ground safety non-commissioned officer in charge. "There are 15 weeks total in the campaign, each week focusing on a different safety topic, providing information and tips."

The extended hours of daylight and ideal weather carry a higher risk of death and injury to military members than any other time of the year. To help prevent fatalities and injuries, the Air Force began implementing the 101 CDS program in the 1960s.

"Last summer, there were 17 Air Force fatalities, one of them from United States Armed Forces in Europe. There were 60 reportable mishaps in USAFE though, one being from Incirlik," said Sergeant Rogers.

While the Air Force has been running this program for more than 40 years, it is important for Airmen to be reminded about hazards and safety during the summer season.

"Between playing sports, going on vacations, grilling out, cruising the country, large amounts of holiday traffic, and other things, the 101 CDS campaign will help give insight and precautions to Airmen, their families and members of this community," said Sergeant Rogers.

Each week of the campaign will showcase safety tips and precautions about hydration, sun protection, barbeques, water activities, recreational sports and other activities.

"Our goal is to have a fun summer and avoid any potential mishaps," said Sergeant Rogers. "Be a good wingman, watch out for each other and stay safe." 

For more information on the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, contact Safety at 676-7233.