Be safe this summer: Summer safety tips from the 90th Missile Wing Safety office Published June 3, 2013 By Staff Sgt. Vanessa Harsh 90th Missile Wing Safety F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- It's that time of year again, The 101 Critical Days of Summer. During last year's safety campaign, from May 24 to Sept. 2, the Air Force suffered 20 fatalities. The Air Force goal is zero fatalities and no severe mishaps. During the summer months, people may participate in many activities that could potentially lead to accidents, or even worse, the loss of life. Most accidents that occur involve alcohol. Make sure to have a plan before drinking. Also, have a back-up plan! Remember these three things: don't drink and drive, don't drink and walk, and if the plan fails, call a wingman. One's career is not worth it, nor is the life of anyone due to a mistake. Many accidents occur during extracurricular activities such as boating, camping and driving all-terrain vehicles. When boating, wear a life vest, do not drink, know how to swim, and know the laws of the water for the state one is swimming or boating. While camping, make the right choices. Drinking, cooking and camp fires are not a good combination. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the campsite. When driving ATVs, ensure all protective equipment is worn: helmet, long pants, goggles, full-finger gloves, long-sleeve shirt and over-the-ankle boots. Ensure everybody riding the ATV -- the driver and any additional passengers -- are wearing protective equipment. Be familiar with the vehicle being driven prior to operating it. Single-rider ATVs mean just that; only one occupant may ride. Ride on designated trails and at safe speeds. Riding on paved roads is prohibited, except to cross safely and when permitted by law. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. When planning summer trips, risk management plays a huge role. Identify and assess the hazards associated with a particular activity. Consider all options to mitigate identified hazards. Ensure someone not going on the trip knows what the plan is. Make sure to have been briefed before partaking in any high risk activities. Keep a first aid kit in the vehicle taken on a trip; be well rested and drive carefully and responsibly. Do not drink and drive. Also make sure to wear a seat belt. The 101 Critical Days of Summer is when most accidents occur. Everybody has a part to play and achieve the Air Force's goal of zero mishaps. Be a good wingman to fellow Airmen and service members. Watch out for each other, enjoy the weather and all Wyoming has to offer -- just do it safely.