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Stay safe this winter

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Abigail Klein
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs Office
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  With the snow and ice already here, the 931st Air Refueling Group Safety Office has some advice for Airmen on how to deal with the common weather problems associated with the season.

Master Sgt. Felicia Sanders, 931st Air Refueling Group ground safety manager, said the number one priority for Airmen when traveling is to ensure vehicles are prepared for the chill.

"If you aren't from this area, you may not think about how much you need to winterize your vehicle," said Sanders. "But you need to take care of that first and make sure  it's ready for the winter weather before you do any traveling at this time of year."

Having the appropriate tools can also come in handy.

"Make sure you have windshield wiper fluid that isn't going to freeze and make sure your tires are in good shape and have the proper air pressure ," she continued. "Of course, make sure you have a good ice scraper. And it's important to have blankets in your vehicle, as well as an emergency roadside kit in case you break down."

Safety precautions shouldn't be limited to vehicle maintenance. According to Sanders, many winter accidents happen from people simply lose their footing.  To avoid this blunder, ensure that you clear all walkways as much as possible.  Wearing shoes that can handle icy conditions, and watching where you step is also key, Sanders said.

It's also important for Airmen to take precautions when working during the winter months. 

"In winter, many people don't think about hydrating, because it's cold outside and they don't get hot," said Sanders. "But it's important to keep hydrating, even in the cool temperatures.

Sanders said the biggest issue in the Wichita area is the mixture of freezing temperatures and wet weather.

"Around here, it's not so much the snow that causes the problem as much as the ice. The roads here get icy very quickly. We get wet weather, and it freezes. That ice is really one of our biggest hazards. When we have conditions like that, it's important to slow down when driving and be cautious of the distance to the vehicles around you."

Most of all, Sanders wants Airmen to remember not to take risks.

"If it's icy or there are weather warnings, stay off the roads. Don't risk it. If the base has delayed reporting, like we did this week, use that delay. If you are in an area where the roads haven't been salted or cleared, or it's going to take you longer to work, just let your supervisor know. Don't rush things, and don't take chances."

The bottom line, Sanders said, is that by taking proper precautions, Airmen and their families can enjoy the holidays, and a fun and safe winter weather season.