Winter safety tips

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jason Shamberger
  • Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. --  Wintery safety is something that all Airmen and their families should practice during the coming months regardless of whether they're on the road or on the slopes.

The winter season brings with it a number of hazards that everyone needs to plan accordingly for, especially when driving.

"The weather is changing," said Master Sgt. Kevin Scott , Air Combat Command (ACC) Safety NCOIC of Investigation Reports, "You have to make sure your car is prepped before the bad weather hits."

Making sure your vehicle has tires that are up to standard and keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle are some examples of how to prepare for the winter weather. Preparing for this weather also includes knowing that your vehicle may respond differently in adverse conditions.

"Make sure you know the conditions," said Senior Master Sgt. Bart Craven, ACC'S Ground Safety manager, "Drive the posted speed limits or lower. Realize your braking distances are going to be extended."

But more than just drivers need to have a winter weather plan in place. Anyone that is participating in outdoor activities will also have to deal with the elements and safety concerns.
"Make sure you have proper clothing for the environment," Scott said, "What's important is to know your limits. If you've never been part of that activity, make sure you take baby steps."

It's the activities such as skiing and snowboarding that have safety officials urging Airmen to use proper precautions while out having fun this winter.

"If you've never been on skis before," Sgt Craven said, "Make sure that you get somebody who's a trained professional show you how to handle and perform in the snow."

Knowing your conditions and planning accordingly is a big part of keeping safe this winter season. Weigh the pros and cons of an activity before participating to make sure it's a good idea.

"Always make sure you use risk management," said Craven, "During the holiday season or whenever. Make sure you don't expose yourself to any undue risk, always be safe."