Take time to plan safe Published Aug. 2, 2012 By 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office staff MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Malmstrom Air Force Base is home to one of few nuclear missions designed to "deter and assure:" deter attacks by the nation's adversaries and assure the safety of the United States. The success of this mission, one with significant importance to the nation's security, relies heavily on the Airmen who carry it out 24/7, 365. That's why the use of proper Operational Risk Management is constantly echoed throughout Wing One. There are six easy steps to ORM: · Identify the hazards · Assess the risks · Analyze risk control measures · Come up with solutions · Implement risk control measures · Supervise and review By properly identifying and then implementing these steps Team Malmstrom members can prepare for and avoid risks associated with any activity, preventing injury and death. While this is not an all inclusive list, the following are some activities that require proper ORM: Motorcycles While motorcycles are a popular warm-weather pastime, they're also a dangerous one. However, there are several steps Team Malmstrom members should take when considering riding a motorcycle. Before starting up a two-wheeled monster, Airmen should check and double check its condition. Check the tires for proper inflation as well as unusual wear and tear. Check for functioning lights and a horn, and ensure all mechanical equipment is working properly. Also, Airmen are required to complete the proper motorcycle safety course before operating one. Visibility is important when riding a motorcycle, due to their small stature. While riding, brightly-colored, reflective attire is required on all Air Force installations, and highly encouraged off of the installations. Additionally, DOT or SNELL-approved helmets, proper eye protection, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and full-fingered gloves are required for all active-duty Airmen on- or off-duty while riding a motorcycle. Four-wheeled Private Motor Vehicles Motor vehicle accidents happen, but there are many ways to avoid them. Wear a seat belt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 40,000 people die each year in car accidents, and restraining devices can prevent death in half of these accidents. Seat belts are the single most effective traffic safety device for preventing death and injury. Seat belt use is mandatory on all Air Force installations. Per the 341st MW Supplement to AFMAN 31-116, a member's first seatbelt violation will result in a written warning. A second violation will result in 30 days of suspended driving privileges and a third violation requires 60 days of walking. Each occurrence will result in four points on an Airman's on-base driving record. Don't drink and drive. Alcohol can impair judgment, reflexes, coordination and concentration, and can even cause loss of consciousness - none of which are safe behind the wheel. Airmen over the age of 21 who plan to drink are encouraged to do it responsibly. A good tool to remember is the 0-0-1-3 program: "zero underage drinking, zero driving under the influence, one drink an hour and never more than three drinks per setting." Airmen planning to drink should develop a plan of action that keeps in mind everyone's safety, and then stick to that plan. An important part of this plan is designating a sober driver or transportation home (e.g. taxi, AADD, etc.). Anyone designated as the driver should not have any alcoholic beverages. This will ensure the safety of everyone involved and prevent negative career and life consequences, injury and even death. Avoid distractions. There are three main types of distracted driving: Manual, when hands aren't on the steering wheel; visual, when eyes are not on the road; and cognitive, when the mind is not on driving. All three types of distractions divert someone's attention away from driving, which can be dangerous for the driver, passengers as well as bystanders. Distractions include, but are not limited to, texting, using a cell phone, eating, reading maps, and adjusting the radio. All of these activities should not occur while driving. Outdoor activities While the weather is warm, Airmen are commonly enjoying their time outdoors. Outdoor activities can be anything from sitting around a campfire, to white water rafting, but each activity presents different risks to the members involved. Before heading outside to enjoy some fun in the sun, Airmen are encouraged to identify and prepare for risks associated with outdoor activities. Wear sunscreen before being exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Know what personal protective equipment is required for each activity and wear it. Take any safety training if applicable, and most importantly, Airmen should let someone know where they will be and when they plan to be back. By planning ahead and taking the proper ORM safety steps, Airmen can avoid negative consequences to themselves as well as others. Taking the time to mitigate hazards and plan for unexpected changes in plans may just be the difference between life and death. Team Malmstrom members are encouraged to have fun, but are also reminded to do it safely.