101 Critical Days of Summer: Labor Day Safety Published Aug. 27, 2009 By 1st Lt. Jared Hostetler 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- It's been a long, work-filled summer. With Combat Capability Evaluation preparation, multiple programs and the increased operations tempo, the thought of the four-day weekend is music to anyone of Team Malmstrom's ears. Labor Day will provide just that break, and right after the CCE couldn't be a better time to relax and blow off some steam. With that break comes everyone's responsibility to stay safe while they enjoy some much needed time off. Here are a few tips to do just that. Responsible Alcohol Consumption A favorite past time of many during Labor Day weekend is to enjoy a beverage of their choice while they socialize. Now there's nothing wrong with that, of course, but one must be aware of their limits, and know when to stop. A general rule is no more than one drink an hour, and no more than three drinks a night, but it is everyone's responsibility to know their limits. Obviously, operation of ANY vehicle after drinking is not something anyone should consider. This includes your ATV's, boats, jet-ski's, etc. Police and rangers have extra patrols during Labor Day weekend and a few beers is not worth your career! Camping If you are planning on venturing into the great outdoors, ensure you have all the necessary gear and supplies. This includes emergency gear such as a flashlight, extra water and something to start a fire with. Montana is beautiful country but can be unforgiving to an amateur camper if not prepared. We all know the weather is unpredictable so planning for anything is never a bad idea. Outdoor Recreation is very helpful with not just the gear to go, but also on advice as to where to go, how to pack and what to avoid. Boating Montana offers boater's familiarization classes for new boaters that are very informative and endorsed by the 341st Missile Wing Safety officer. It is highly recommended that new boaters take this class, and information about when and where these classes are can be found at the Region Fish, Wildlife and Parks Office at Giant Springs. You are 86 percent less likely to die on a boat if the operator has been properly trained. Y ou should always carry enough lifejackets for everyone on your boat and they should be easily assessable in the event of any emergency. The odds of drowning in a boating incident if you are wearing a life jacket are only 1 in 10. As with anything else, common sense will get you far. If you find yourself saying, "Hey, hold my beer, watch this," what you're about to do is probably really stupid. Take care of each other and have a safe and much deserved long weekend.