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Be seen, stay safe

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jensen Stidham
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  As the hours of darkness change, understanding the importance of being seen while conducting physical training can be the difference between life or death.

Daylight saving time ends on Nov. 2, there will be less visibility earlier in the day due to the sun setting one hour earlier than usual.

Shaw AFB Instruction 91-207 states: All military and Department of Defense civilian personnel who are exposed to vehicular traffic (running; jogging; walking, etc.) will wear reflective clothing or devices (such as a reflective belt), that is visible from all angles during the hours of official sunset to official sunrise and reduced visibility (such as inclement weather to include fog, rain, sleet, snow, etc.).

"Safety should always be every Airman's top priority," said Staff Sgt. Tierra Stokes, 20th Fighter Wing ground safety technician. "Wearing reflective belts while doing PT in low-light situations helps keep Airmen and others around them safe."

Just as it is important to be seen, motorists are advised to heighten their awareness.

When driving during low-visibility hours, stay vigilant and watch for pedestrians. To see Airmen wearing reflective gear, ensure to turn on vehicle headlights and drive slower than normal, said Tech. Sgt. Steven Freeman, 20th FW ground safety technician.

Every effort counts when considering the safety of Team Shaw and their families.

"Not wearing a reflective belt causes an increased risk of a mishap occurring merely because others were not able to see you," said Stokes. "Simply wearing a reflective belt can save your life."

Airmen are the Air Force's most valued asset and maintaining safety while staying "fit-to-fight" should be a priority for everyone.