FORT LEONARD WOOD, MO. -- As always, the safety of those who live and work on Fort Leonard Wood is at the forefront of installation leadership's minds, and covers everything from safety classes to safety messages.
However, a safety message that leadership feels is important enough to highlight is for those who conduct physical training on post during reduced visibility situations. Per Fort Leonard Wood Regulation 190-5,whether you are a Soldier or a civilian, you must wear reflective gear and you must conduct PT on authorized routes.
Col. Charles Williams, garrison commander, said wearing reflective gear from dusk to dawn is important, but should also be worn during the day for higher visibility. This ensures that motor vehicle operators see runners, helping to secure their safety.
"Wearing reflective or high visibility gear is essential when we share the roads with vehicles and motorcycles when we exercise," added Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Wells, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence. "It gives the motorist advanced warning of someone sharing the road without the benefit of air bags or wrapped in three-quarter ton of steel."
Also, remember that service members are not the only runners and joggers that are required to wear reflective gear while conducting physical training, said Don Rose, Directorate of Emergency Services deputy director.
"The requirement is for all personnel, to include civilians, regardless of PT attire," Rose said.
Greg Wolf, MSCoE safety specialist, added that the requirements for both Soldiers and civilians can be found in IAW FLW 385-4 and IAW FLW 190-5, and can be accessed online at www. wood.army.mil/doimspt/Regs.htm.
Although there have not been any recent accidents that involve someone not wearing reflective gear, during the winter months the sun sets early and rises late.
"It is especially important to be aware of the requirements as many are conducting PT during limited visibility as the workforce is coming and going," Rose said.
Rose was referring to FLW 190-5, which states that all joggers will wear reflective material that is visible from both the front and back during the hours of darkness or restricted visibility, when jogging on any road, whether it is paved or unpaved. This regulation also covers other safety guidelines in regards to pedestrian traffic and those operating bicycles.
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