'Safe-N-Sound All Year Round'

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Krystie Martinez
  • Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. --  As the first official day of winter nears; the Air Combat Command Safety team offers tips to help Airmen and their families stay safe this season.

"Currently ACC is conducting the 2012 Holiday/Winter Campaign in conjunction with the Air Force Safety Center," said Master Sgt. Justin Ulmen, Headquarters ACC Safety Mishap Analysis manager. "The theme for this year's campaign is 'Safe-n-Sound, All Year Round'."

This holiday season, ACC Safety's goal is to ensure information and seasonal safety tips are available across the Air Force community.

Whether Airmen and their families are skiing, sledding or walking down an icy sidewalk, there is an increased degree of risk.

"The most common on-duty winter injuries across ACC are attributed to slips, trips and falls on slick or icy walking surfaces," Ulmen said. "Many times those falls have resulted in severe sprains, strains, broken bones and sometimes concussions."

Taking short shuffling steps, keeping hands out of pockets and simply paying attention are a few ways to prevent an injury while walking on slick surfaces.

When it comes to the more adventurous side of winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding, Ulmen says common injuries range from bumps and bruises, to severe fractures requiring surgery.

"I would recommend avoiding activities leadership has deemed too dangerous to participate in," Ulmen said. "Airmen should contact their supervisors for a local list of high risk activities."

No matter what the activity, Ulmen offers basic guidelines for Airmen and their families before they head out to enjoy the weather.

"The best way to prevent an injury is to use sound risk-management, and ensure you and your family have the proper training to participate in any winter sport you might undertake," Ulmen said. "Wear the correct type of personal protective equipment for your particular activity to lessen or prevent any potential injury that could occur."

Click here for more winter safety tips.