Safety fair heats up critical days of summer

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Nestor Cruz
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Thunderbolts brought the sizzle into summer fun with a safety fair May 23 inside the former officer's club.

The safety fair, hosted by 56th Fighter Wing Safety, featured information booths, equipment demonstrations and interactive activities.

"The purpose of the safety fair is two-fold: to place an emphasis on general safety awareness and to kick off the Critical Days of Summer," said Ben Bruce, 56th FW Ground Safety manager.

Organizations from both on and off base participated in the safety fair to chat with Luke's military and civilian Airmen, and to offer free information to help get the most out of summer fun while minimizing risks. Safety fair vendors included representatives from the wing safety office, family advocacy, Airman and Family Readiness Center, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment program, and Luke Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club.

Russell Wilson, Luke Green Knights MMC public affairs officer, said he was glad to be part of the safety fair and promote safe riding with other motorcycle enthusiasts. During the event, he offered motorcycle riders a few helpful tips.

"People in cars do not look for motorcycles, so be defensive," he said. "Also, stay hydrated but stay away from soda and alcohol. And take lots of breaks."

ADAPT technicians conducted mock sobriety tests during the safety fair with "beer goggles," devices that simulate the effects of drinking. Goggles ranged from .06 blood alcohol content, the equivalent of three standard drinks, to .17 BAC, the equivalent of nine drinks. After donning one of the goggles, volunteers were asked to walk a duct tape line.

The ADAPT booth also featured props showing what standard drinks look like and a liver chart display showing the effects of alcohol on a human liver.

Senior Airman Alexander Collier, 56th MDOS ADAPT technician, guided Luke members through the sobriety test and displays and offered some helpful advice on responsible drinking.

"Be aware of the options available to you when you go out, including Airmen Against Drunk Driving and calling a taxi," Collier said. "Don't go out without a plan and make sure you have a backup plan as well."

The safety fair proved to be an overall success in reminding Luke members to keep safety in mind in a fun and informative environment.

"Mishap prevention is what the safety fair is all about," Bruce said. "It's about saving lives."