Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico -- As winter's tempo shifts to a new operational season, we must remain vigilant. The arrival of a new season in nature has its parallels in our operational environment, introducing a fresh set of risks that require proactive assessment. Consistent use of risk management is the key to safeguarding our fellow Airmen, Guardians, and the mission itself.
These risk management skills are foundational to everything we do. From the moment we enter service, we are taught core principles of safety and awareness. As our careers progress, we continuously build upon that foundation, honing our ability to identify, analyze, and mitigate risk in increasingly complex scenarios.
The same is true for the Department of the Air Force as it transforms its risk management course to integrate concepts that enhance readiness across training, exercises, and combat operations to prepare Airmen and Guardians at all levels to execute the mission smartly with risk management skills and assessments on and off duty.
As every season has its risks, spring is no different. Here is a list of items to utilize those risk management skills learned when you begin spring cleaning, outdoor activities or any spring activity.
Work Center & Household Preparedness:
Spring cleaning has become a tradition for many as the weather gets warmer, but remember if using chemicals for washing walls, cabinets or floors, be careful not to mix them together as they can cause poisonous fumes or gases that can be harmful to your lungs or worse deadly. Read all labels, open windows and doors to help ventilate the room, if you have a fan use it.
If ground maintenance needs to be done, remember to wear personal protective gear, gloves, long sleeve shirts, closed toe shoes, long pants and safety glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes and yourself. The proper use of each tool should be followed and remember to store them properly.
On- and Off-Duty Activities:
Spring offers numerous opportunities for both mandatory and voluntary outdoor activities. Applying risk management ensures that we maintain our readiness and well-being. When engaging in physical training and personal fitness activities like hiking or biking, carry enough water and be mindful of your physical limitations and exertion levels, especially as temperatures rise.
Remember to have a plan for every activity you decide to participate in to include picnics and backyard barbeques. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and bug repellent, remember to stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses. Higher pollen concentrations and longer pollen seasons can increase sensitivity to allergens and trigger asthma episodes. Take precautions before heading outside.
Travel and Weather Awareness:
Whether you're on leave, on a temporary duty assignment, or simply commuting, travel presents its own set of risks that must be managed. Ensure motor vehicles are well-maintained throughout the year. Conduct thorough vehicle inspections before road trips; check your tires, brakes, and fluids. Pack an emergency kit with water, food, and blankets.
Depending on where you live in the world, remember storms can occur with little warning and become deadly due to events like floods, tornados, thunderstorms or heat waves. Be sure to check the weather before you travel so you don’t get stranded or worse. The National Weather Service is one tool that will assist in staying informed on storms in your area and tips for each type of situation. https://www.weather.gov/wrn/spring-safety
“Mission readiness is a 24/7 commitment. While spring brings reawakening and outdoor adventures, safety remains paramount for our entire community - military, civilians, and families,” said Keith Lear, chief of Occupational Safety, Air Force Safety Center. “Let’s approach the season with awareness, responsible practices, and a mission-focused mindset to protecting ourselves and each other, ensuring everyone enjoys a safe and injury free spring.”
For additional spring safety tips and information: https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Spring-Safety/