Independence Day Holiday Safety Message from The Surgeon General

By Lt. Gen. Patricia HorohoJuly 2, 2013

Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

We are blessed to live in a Nation with unrivaled freedoms. As we celebrate our Nation's

237th Birthday, take time to remember the men and women of our Armed Forces who defend and protect the freedoms we hold dear.

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, focus on playing safe and keeping safe. Know your limits and do not accept unnecessary risks. All leaders will conduct pre-holiday safety briefings for all their personnel, giving special emphasis to the risks associated with drinking and driving, operating watercraft, speeding, choosing not to wear seat belts, driving while fatigued, not wearing a helmet or personal floatation device, and participating in amateur firework displays.

All Soldiers are reminded to have their vehicles inspected and use the automated risk assessment (TRiPS), if you plan to take leave, pass, TOY, or PCS. Leaders take advantage of the Army's Take-S for Summer Safety campaign for a virtual tool box full of summer safety related videos, articles, and posters that will help keep all Soldiers, Civilians, and their Families safe. Access the tool-box at the Combat Readiness/Safety Center website and click-on the Take-S logo at https://safety.army.mil. Additionally, I want all leaders to emphasize sexual assault risks, prevention, and response in their holiday safety briefings; guidance is available at http://www.armymedicine.army.mil/medcom/sharp.html. My goal is to provide a safe and healthful environment for all Soldiers, Civilians, Family Members, visitors, and contractors across our command.

The summer severe weather season is upon us -we recently experienced several devastating storms and tornadoes across the US. Knowing your tornado condition (TOR:CON) can significantly help keep you safe, be better prepared, and anticipate for a tornado. To learn more, follow this link: http://www.weather.com/news/tornado-torcon-index.

Your safety is vital to the continued defense of our Nation. I am counting on each of you to avoid unnecessary risks and keep safe. Ensure you apply the performance triad in all your activities as you enjoy this patriotic holiday weekend. Army Safe is Army Strong.

Serving to Heal...Honored to Serve!