Shaw kicks off Critical Days of Summer campaign Published May 25, 2011 By Alexandria Mosness 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- With the temperatures steadily rising, more Team Shaw Airmen and Soldiers are planning more outdoor activities. But that is not all that is on the rise: From Memorial Day to Labor Day, many military members are injured or lose their life during off-duty recreational activities. The Critical Days of Summer campaign was designed in 1970 to counter the traditional increase in military mishaps and fatalities that occur during the summer months. The goal of the campaign is "to raise awareness and try to limit loss of life and injuries to military personnel and their families," said Scott Eck, 20th Fighter Wing Safety, ground safety office. Although the goal of the safety office is zero preventable mishaps, according to Eck, approximately one third of the Air Force's off-duty deaths occur during this time period. "A good portion of these mishaps involve four-wheel and two-wheel personal vehicles," Eck continued. "Causal factors include speeding, drinking and driving and not wearing a seatbelt. For motorcycle riders, causal factors include speeding, exceeding riding capabilities and not wearing the required personal protective equipment." When it comes down to it, safety deals with a lot of common sense, said Eck. "No matter what activity you participate in this summer, educate yourself," he said. "Know the potential hazards associated with those activities and look for ways to mitigate or eliminate the risk. Take a few minutes to slow down and evaluate what you are doing. Make smart, educated decisions and most of all, think before you act." And, while there are many tips on how to stay safe during the summer months, the safety office wants you to know it is up to you to stay safe. "You are the best defense against mishaps during the Critical Days of Summer," Eck added. The safety office will be working harder during the next couple of months to promote safety to Team Shaw , including a planned toolkit containing a variety of safety information to get everyone through the Critical Days of Summer safely. The safety office, to go along with the Air Force's 2011 motto "Year of the Motorcycle Safety," will also be hosting a "Safe Riding" event during the upcoming summer months. For more information, call the safety office at 803-895-1985.