As we gather with our Families and friends this holiday season to honor traditions, reflect on the challenges and successes of 2014, and look with hope to 2015. Please keep in mind the many Families with an empty seat at their table. Being part of the Army Family has inherent sacrifices and it is especially important to remember those Families and their deployed loved ones during the holidays.
The holidays are a time for joyous celebration; they are also a time for extra caution. Drinking and driving, or driving without using seatbelts are unacceptable behaviors. If you are planning to drive long distances, please ensure that you have examined the risks using the TravelRisk Planning System (TRiPS). Fatigue is often a risk factor contributing to serious accidents, but can be avoided by getting adequate sleep, nutrition and exercise. Learn more about a System for Health and the Performance Triad at the following link: http://armymedicine.mil/Pages/performance-triad.aspx.
Although vehicle operations typically are our highest risk factors during the holidays, there are other risks that require our attention, such as avoiding falls from step ladders; keeping live Christmas trees well watered, never leaving burning candles unattended, and avoiding electrical accidents by not overloading wiring and following manufacturer's directions. Take advantage of the "Ready...or Not?" 2014 Fall/Winter Safety Campaign available on the US Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center website: https://safety.army.mil. Tools and resources are available to help plan your winter activities, holiday travels, and manage risks along the way.
I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season. Let us all strive to make this holiday season accident-free and continue to practice the basic principles of safety throughout the coming year. We are "Army Safe and Army Strong."
Serving to Heal...Honored to Serve!
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