ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Labor Day weekend signifies the last weekend of summer and is particular to American culture.
The holiday – first celebrated September 5, 1882 – is a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of our country.
The Air Force proudly shares in that tradition. However, Labor Day weekend is also among one of the deadliest weekends in the year.
About 34.5 million people will be traveling greater than 50 miles from home during the four-day weekend resulting in an estimated 400 traffic deaths and 43,000 serious injuries nationally.
Sadly, in previous years, the Air Force has seen 17 to 20 fatalities on Labor Day weekend. Though none of those casualties were at Robins, we all suffer when there’s a loss of our fellow airmen.
Airman safety is an integral part to force readiness and mission success at Robins. Take time to consider all of these safety tips:
Travel Safety
*Carry an emergency supply kit in your trunk.
*Let your family know your destinations, the route you are taking, and estimated arrival time.
*Buckle up! And have all passengers wear their seatbelts, too.
*Obey traffic laws and observe the posted speed limits.
*Don’t drink and drive. Assign a designated driver or make plans for a taxi or Uber driver.
*Do not be distracted while driving. Don’t text and use hands free devices for phone calls.
Water Safety
*Know weather conditions prior to swimming.
*Provide constant supervision to children in or near the water.
*Always swim in designated swimming areas and with a buddy.
*Don’t drink and swim
*Children and inexperienced swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard approved flotation device.
Grilling Safety
*Keep the grill a safe distance from all buildings.
*Keep children and pets away from grilling area.
*Never add charcoal lighter fluid after the coals have already been ignited.
*Never leave a grill unattended. Extinguish the coals when finished.
*Do not use gasoline as an accelerant.
We encourage each of you to fully enjoy this holiday recognizing our work contributions to Robins and challenge you to put safety first in all of your holiday activities. Have a Safe and Happy Labor Day weekend.