Safety awareness on and off duty

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Keenan Berry
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  On Saturday morning, Jan. 17 at 1 a.m., three members from Team Whiteman were attacked on Pine Street by five individuals in the Warrensburg community. They suffered severe injuries and two underwent surgery.

After a long week of work, Airmen typically like to unwind and go out with friends to let loose. However, just like on the job, safety is imperative when out having fun. Airmen are a valuable resource and must take into consideration their safety and how to avoid harmful situations.

Members of team Whiteman must be aware of situations that can lead to tragic results. To prevent a potentially harmful situation from occurring, 509th Security Forces members offer tips for Airmen to protect themselves and each other.

"When Airmen are out and about in the local area, avoid wearing the uniform as much as possible," said Senior Airman Denver McLaughlin, 509th SFS member. "The reason for this is because you standout easily, making yourself a possible target. Do not behave in a manner that will draw attention to yourself, such as bragging about your affiliation with the Air Force. This might upset some people, which could cause them to react in a violent manner."

Wingmanship, as we know, is a trait that has been engrained within our development as an Airman. It has been taught in basic training, reinforced in technical school and reintroduced in the operational force. It is a trait we never depart from.

"Always have a group of wingmen with you at all times," said Airman 1st Class Victoria Fox, 509th SFS member. "Remaining in groups is the one of the best ways to remain safe when out and about. If you find yourself in an altercation, try to solve it at the lowest level by walking away. It's not always easy, but it will eliminate the situation before it escalates."

Recognizing a potentially dangerous situation before it happens can help avoid negative results.

"Incorporate risk management into your daily life," said Master Sgt. David Markin, 509th Bomb Wing safety superintendent. "This can be as simple as if it doesn't look right, doesn't feel right, it probably isn't right and make a different decision."

These safety tips are provided to Airmen to increase awareness and vigilance when they are out having a good time. Safety, above all, is most important to the Whiteman mission and can be detrimental if overlooked. Be safe!