ANSBACH, Germany -- Spring is here! Whether you're a motorcycle rider, bicyclist, skater (skateboarder, kick scooter, inline skater, etc.), volksmarcher or sightseeing enthusiast, the warm weather means it's time to start getting ready to engage in your favorite activities.
As you prepare to re-engage in your favorite outdoor activity, remember risk management. Risk management will allow you to return to the activity safely and enjoy it throughout the upcoming summer months while reducing your chance of incurring an injury.
Risk management does not mean you avoid taking risks; on the contrary, it means you decide which risks are worth taking rather than leaving it to chance. While there are very few guarantees in life, there are things we can do to minimize things going awry.
If you're a motorcyclist, skater or bicyclist, donning personal protective gear, or PPE, is the first step in reducing the element of risk. No matter how great a rider, skater or bicyclist you are there is always the potential for an accident to occur. Remember, you do not have to cause an accident; you can be a victim of someone else's error. PPE is your best line of defense when it comes to surviving another's error.
When properly worn, PPE can help prevent or lessen the severity of injuries sustained in a crash. Always wear the PPE appropriate for your activity. Every professional knows that wearing PPE puts you in control however; it will not protect you from making bad decisions. Know and respect your limits and the limits of your equipment.
Volksmarching is exercise, fun and a chance to socialize with others or spend quality time with a loved one. But before you go, remember tick season is from April to November, and every year the ticks that carry and transmit Lyme disease or encephalitis are active in the countryside in Germany.
To prevent tick bites, wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts when you go volksmarching and always stay on the marked trail. In fact, walk in the middle of trails and paths whenever possible. Keep your pets on a leash. Carry water with you to stay hydrated and don't over do it. Walk or run at your own pace -- it is not a competition. The idea is to enjoy nature in the company of a friend, loved one, or your pets.
Spring is the perfect time to go sightseeing in Europe. So, don't stay at home on the weekends; get out and explore your surroundings, but plan your weekend. Don't try to cram too many activities into a single weekend. Start by checking the weather forecast so you will know what to wear and what to bring.
Ensure your vehicle is prepped, serviceable and has all required emergency gear. For long trips, map out your route and plan break stops along the way. Don't forget to take your emergency contact numbers and let someone know where you will be going and how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
This spring, return to your favorite pastime with passion, but do so smartly. Don't let a spring accident ruin your entire summer -- manage your risk.
Related Links:
U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Spring/Summer Safety Campaign
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