Motorcycle briefing preaches proactive mishap prevention

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Yash Rojas
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The 354th Fighter Wing Safety office will offer the annual motorcycle preseason brief April 26 and 27 at the base theater.

The briefing provides service members with all the necessary tools to ensure a fun-filled 2012 summer riding season, which opens April 28. There will be six briefings for riders to attend; 8 a.m., noon or 4 p.m. the first day, and 8:30 a.m., noon or 4 p.m. the following day.

The Air Force takes a proactive approach to motorcycle riding because mishap statistics Air Force-wide and across Department of Defense suggest a two-wheel vehicle involved in an accident can be more severe to the rider than if driving a car, said Master Sgt. Rebecca Theakston, 354th Fighter Wing ground safety manager.

Because statistics have shown further need for more responsible motorcycle use, Airmen who plan on riding during the upcoming season must attend the initial commander's motorcycle briefing plus the annual pre-briefing prior to each season.

Those who attend the preseason briefing will be added into the Motorcycle Unit Safety Tracking Tool program. The unit motorcycle monitors can then update and maintain those who are current with their annual motorcycle briefing requirement.

The briefing ensures riders practice situational awareness while out traveling and also encourages proper inspection prior to riding. In addition, it will identify proper personal protective equipment to wear when riding a motorcycle, as well as licensing requirements, mishap prevention, riding management, and provide information on future mentorship rides.

The next motorcycle mentorship ride is scheduled for May 5 at 9 a.m. starting at the Base Exchange parking lot.

"Mentorship rides help foster safe riding for inexperienced and experienced riders," said Master Sgt. Benito Hibbert, 354th Medical Operations Squadron bioenvironmental engineering craftsmen. "It also provides additional information for riders and non-riders."

For more information on motorcycle safety and rider requirements, call the safety office at 377-4260. For information on the upcoming mentorship ride, contact Hibbert at benito.hibbert@us.af.mil.