Outdoor injuries spike in summer

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. William Jones
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Ground Safety
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 2015 Critical Days of Summer Campaign kicks off this Memorial Day weekend. Along with the holiday, summer weather increases recreational activities and the risk for mishaps. Hundreds of preventable injuries occur every year during the summer months related to outside activities. Two of the more notable mishap-causing activities are running and bicycling.

While running may seem like a mundane activity, several preventive steps can be taken to reduce the potential for mishaps.

· Know your route and running limitations.
· Do not overexert yourself especially in hotter weather.
· Ensure you wear loose fitting attire which will keep you cooler and aide in post running recovery. 
· Wear proper fitting shoes that have been previously broken in. Your first six mile run is not the time to break-in a previously unworn pair of shoes. 
· Know the rules and regulations in the area you choose to run. For example, when running on-base, the use of headphones while running on a roadway is prohibited.
· Stay on sidewalks or running trails whenever possible.
· If running on a roadway, ensure you run against traffic to ensure you can see on-coming traffic.
· Stay properly hydrated.
· Drink plenty of water and decrease caffeine or supplement use in hot weather.
· Make sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back in case of emergency situations.

Many of the precautions you take prior to running you can take prior to bicycling.

· In addition, complete a safety check of your bicycle prior to operation. This should include tires, breaks and chains.
· Ensure you have the proper personal protective equipment to decrease mishap potential.
· When operating a bicycle on base there are a few safety items to keep in mind.
· All personnel must wear a helmet when riding.
· Bicyclists must ride with the flow of traffic and follow all traffic laws associated with vehicle operation.
· If operating a bicycle during the hours of darkness, bicycles must be equipped with a lamp emitting a while light that is visible from the front and to the sides.
· A red reflector or light must be positioned at the rear of the bicycle.
· You should never wear head-phones or carry objects while operating a bicycle. These practices pose additional distractions and increase mishap potential.
· Those who utilize skateboards, rollerblades or roller skates need to make sure they wear the appropriate personal protective equipment for the specific activity they are participating in. For example, helmet, elbow/knee pads, etc.

This is a great time of year in Northern California and at Travis. Take the time to get out and experience all of the different types of recreational activities the area has to offer. With a little preparation and a few safe practices, you will get through the coming months mishap free.