KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- As the weather turns colder and leaves start to change colors are sure signs that summer is about to end. Autumn is a season of vibrant colors, crisp air, and cozy moments. From pumpkin spice lattes to scenic hikes, there's so much to enjoy, but it also presents unique risks that require careful management. Risk management should be used for all activities on and off duty to keep you and your loved ones safe.
The Autumn season brings many changes that can affect safety and mission readiness.
"Autumn's beauty is undeniable, but so are its unique workplace hazards,” said William “Bill” Walkowiak, chief of Occupational Safety for the Department of the Air Force. “From slippery leaves to the increased risk of outdoor tasks in unpredictable weather, it's crucial to proactively manage the risks. By understanding these potential hazards and taking preventive steps, we can minimize the likelihood and impact of accidents and injuries, to keep ourselves, our teammates, and our families safe.”
Shorter days and foggy mornings can make it hard to see, combined with falling leaves on sidewalks, driveways or roadways that create slippery walking and driving surfaces. Take it slow when walking to your vehicle or into your office as frost and fallen leaves can make surfaces hazardous to walk on. Leaves can also cover potholes on the roads which can cause blown tires, vehicle damage or accidents.
Rainstorms can occur without warning causing water to rise quickly. Avoid using cruise control when driving in a rainstorm as patches of water can cause your vehicle to hydroplane. Never try to cross if you see the roads flooded or the water is rising quickly, turn around. Six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger vehicles causing loss of control and possible stalling. If you are unable to turn around leave your vehicle and get to higher ground.
If driving in the dark, stay alert and watch for pedestrians and children walking to school or the bus stop. Always stop for school buses loading and unloading children and never pass a stopped school bus in a school zone. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2023, there were 7,314 pedestrians killed and more than 68,000 were injured nationwide.
Additionally, the National Safety Council estimates 502 people may die on U. S. roads this Thanksgiving holiday period. Alcohol has continued to be a leading factor in motor vehicle deaths and injuries. In 2023, there were 2,117 people killed in alcohol-related crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol content of .01 to .07 g/dL. Have a plan before drinking alcohol, use a ride share or stay put because the life you save could be your own.
If your plans are to stay home and relax or finish those honey-do-lists, make sure you have the correct tools and safety equipment for every job. For yardwork the minimum should be safety glasses, long sleeve shirts and gloves to help protect you from flying debris or sharp objects. The temperature may be cooler, but heat stroke, sunburns or dehydration can still occur. Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in the shade, wear a hat and sunscreen to protect you from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
There is nothing more enjoyable than having a family barbeque but remember the risks involved. The National Fire Protection Agency states “an average of 21,682 patients per year went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills.” These risks can be alleviated if you follow these simple tips:
- Grills should be at least ten feet away from any structure
- Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away
- Never leave the grill unattended
- Have a charged hose or bucket of water handy in case of accidental fires
Walkowiak stressed the importance of safety, noting, "Every Airman and Guardian is invaluable. A five-year look from 2020-2024, during September 1 to November 30 timeframe, we lost 59 teammates. We must be vigilant, watching out for each other and reporting hazards or unsafe practices."
Additional information and tips can be found here: https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Fall-Safety/