Critical Days of Summer have arrived Published June 4, 2013 By Tech Sgt. Matthew Vincent 20th Fighter Wing Safety Office SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Being as such, I would like to take a few moments to give you a sample of what to expect during the upcoming CDOS. The CDOS will span over 14 weeks (24 May - 3 Sep), with each week concentrating on a different topic. Safety needs to be a way of life, every single day. However, the summer months get highlighted every year because that's when the majority of documented mishaps occur. The CDOS messages will make it out to you with the help of the Wing Safety office, commanders, chiefs, first sergeants, superintendants, supervisors, and peers. Here is a quick rundown of some topics this year's CDOS will cover. On the Road Again (Distracted Driving): Distracted driving has become an epidemic in our country over the past few years. With all the advances in technology (cell phones, tablets, computers, vehicles, etc.) it is more tempting than ever to take our eyes off the road and focus on some type of electronic device while driving. Looking at anything other than the road and the other vehicles on the road is dangerous, yet it continues to happen at an accelerated rate. Stone Cold Sober (Drinking & Driving): We get briefings and additional education about drinking and driving time and time again. However, the battle continues to carry on. We will continue to combat drinking and driving by stressing the importance of both building a solid plan and executing said plan. Friends (Wingman): Why is it important to be a Wingman? Well we will use this week to emphasize how being a good Wingman is vital to the Air Force's ability to meet its mission. We will emphasize how being a good Wingman may not always seem like the cool thing to do but ends up being worth it in the end. I know the format of this article might be different than typical articles, but I wrote this as if I was the one reading a CDOS article. I would want to know what the CDOS were all about and where to find additional information. In years past I heard about the CDOS through briefings and emails. But I was never aware of where I could get additional information to pass onto my troops and Airmen. I hope that with this article and the provided link to the Safety COP, you feel a little more informed and a little more prepared. The CDOS are used as a tool to promote safety. Push the safety message and enjoy your summer! TSgt Matthew Vincent spent 10 years and 7 months as an Aircrew Flight Equipment technician before transitioning to Ground Safety in March of 2013. "Know Safety, No Injury. No Safety, Know Injury." - Unknown Author https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/community/views/home.aspx?Filter=27535