Travel safe, come home in one piece Published April 20, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Brian Jones 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- As we enter the travel season, Incirlik Airmen and their families are venturing out to experience all that Turkey has to offer. When traveling there are some things to keep in mind to ensure your explorations begin and end safely. Precipitation is common during the spring here. Driving in the rain can be treacherous because of pot holes that are not visible when filled with standing water and the possibility of hydroplaning on wet roads. Slowing down and planning extra time to make a trip during wet weather can help ensure a safe arrival at your destination. "A short trip where you're in a rush can turn into a tragedy with just a couple of inches of water," said Master Sgt. Darnell Edmonds, 39th Air Base Wing ground safety manager. For Airmen and their families, safe travel begins before ever hitting the road by ensuring vehicles are properly prepared for travel. "It's important that tires are in good condition, as well as the car's windshield wipers. Working wipers will ensure you have a direct line of sight," said Sergeant Edmonds. Proper planning also includes mapping out your trip, letting others know of your route and traveling with a safety kit that includes such items as a flashlight, jumper cables, a digital camera, a cell phone and a first aid kit. Another critical travel safety consideration involves making sure all occupants are wearing seatbelts and children are secure in child safety seats. It doesn't matter how well equipped a vehicle is if the passengers don't buckle up. "Just because you have a vehicle with air bags and side-curtain airbags doesn't mean you don't have to wear your seatbelt," said Sergeant Edmonds. "Air bags alone aren't going to protect you. Air bags come out with a lot of force and they are not as soft as a pillow, but they are softer than the steering wheel or the windshield. Seat belts are to be used in conjunction with air bags." The ground safety manager emphasizes that it isn't just the driver of the vehicle that should be restrained, but all passengers. Another aspect of safe travel that cannot be ignored is adhering to anti-terrorism/force protection measures when exploring Turkey. "Turkey has a number of active terrorist groups," said Capt. Patrick McVay, 39th ABW, chief of anti-terrorism/force protection. "Though Americans typically aren't the targets of the attacks, there is the potential that we can be hurt if we are in the wrong place at the wrong time." Captain McVay reminds Incirlik members there are individual measures they can take to protect themselves when outside the gates. "To avoid a hazard, the most basic requirement is be aware of it. Pay attention to what is going on around you," said Master Sgt. Paul Jackson, AT/FP superintendent. "A cell phone is a must when traveling in Turkey. If something happens, and a recall must be initiated, or there is a concern about an area you are in, a cell phone is often the only means to reach you fast." Additionally, Incirlik travelers should do the following: - Know the locations of police stations and hospitals in the areas you are traveling. - Dress conservatively. American standards for what is deemed acceptable attire sometimes clashes with our more conservative Turkish hosts. Don't stand out and don't be a magnet for the attentions - Travel in groups, review the "local area travel brief" on the Source and check ATFP directives for travel restrictions. Being assigned to Incirlik offers vast opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of Turkey. Taking a few steps to ensure your and your families' safety can make all the difference. Travel Checklist Ensure vehicles are properly serviced and ready for travel Map your route Inform others of your travel plans to include departure and arrival times Carry an emergency kit Wear seat belts Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws Don't call undue attention to yourself/dress conservatively Get to know key Turkish phrases Travel in groups Ensure you are familiar with the area to include the locations of police stations and hospitals Minimize travel at night Check ATFP directives for travel restrictions Review local area travel brief on the Source Carry a cell phone with programmed emergency numbers