Plan properly for a safe long holiday weekend

By Lt. Gen. David D Halverson, commanding general, U.S. Army Installation Management Command and Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation ManagementOctober 3, 2014

Lt. Gen. David D. Halverson
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Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Hartless
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SAN ANTONIO (Oct. 3, 2014) -- Columbus Day has been a federal holiday since 1937. Each of you deserves some rest and relaxation. Celebrate and enjoy this time off with your family and friends. As you embark on your long weekend, please be careful and emphasize safety.

If you are travelling, go online and check out the unique hazards of the location you plan to visit. Columbus Day often means one last trip to the coast. Think safety: Never swim alone, always use sunscreen and don't let alcohol impede your judgment.

With seasonal changes approaching, consider using this weekend to prepare for winter risks and hazards. Remember - and remind your coworkers of - the factors brought by the fall, like shorter days, much cooler nights and foraging wildlife. Past harsh winters taught us to be proactive in not only identifying hazards around the house, but also doing minor maintenance, such as checking and insulating water pipes, before harsh weather transforms minor problems into major damage.

National Fire Prevention Week also kicks off during this holiday weekend, October 5 through 11. For those of us relaxing at home, now is a good time for a preseason inspection of heaters and for testing and replacing smoke detector batteries. More helpful fire prevention tips can be found here: http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/fire-prevention-week.

Finally, limit the use of alcohol. If you drink, don't drive. Have a designated driver. The Army Safety Center has several tools you can use (https://safety.army.mil/) to plan a road trip and keep you and your family from harm.

We are extremely proud of all that you do for our nation's Army. IMCOM supports our warfighters across the globe and our people are the key to our success. Enjoy your weekend. You earned it.

Army Strong!

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U.S. Army Installation Management Command