Base focuses on holiday safety Published Dec. 16, 2009 By Senior Airman Kimberly Moore 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Ms. -- The holidays should be a season of celebration and joy but far too often activities leading to celebrations result in distress. Air Force-wide, between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, there's an average of 272 safety mishaps, said Staff Sgt. James Yerger, 81st Training Wing ground safety apprentice. Of these, nearly 70 are personal motor vehicle mishaps. Sergeant Yerger had advice for members to consider while planning a road trip. "The biggest part of planning for road trips is getting enough sleep," Sergeant Yerger said. "Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drinking and driving. "Drowsy driving and driving while fatigued are similar -- however, drowsy driving is caused by boredom while driving while fatigued is from sleepiness," he explained. "Drowsy driving is caused by repetitive or boring drives where the driver doesn't experience anything new. There is nothing to stimulate the brain and the body relaxes enough to make the driver drowsy. "Drowsy drivers put themselves, their passengers, other drivers and bystanders at risk," he explained. "Being awake for 21 hours is the equivalent of having a blood alcohol content of .08." Sergeant Yerger pointed out things to watch for if you feel like you're becoming a drowsy driver. "Some warning signs for drowsy driving include heavy eyelids, yawning and restlessness, not remembering driving, lack of concentration and staring without paying attention," Sergeant Yerger warned. "The best cure is to stop and rest. Talking to another passenger may be helpful, but don't rely on loud music, cold air or yelling to wake up." Fatigued and drowsy driving aren't the only considerations for drivers preparing for a journey. "Do not rely on (a global positioning system) to get you to your destination," Sergeant Yerber said. "Plan a route and have an alternate route in mind as well and check for construction zones. "Check the weather forecast and make adjustments to your trip as necessary," he continued. "If going to a cold environment, be aware of ice on roadways and the possibility of snow. "Make sure before you depart that your vehicle maintenance is up to date and have an emergency kit in your vehicle," Sergeant Yerger added. "The kit should include first aid supplies, food, water and blankets." If your celebration plans include activities that are considered high-risk, there are other preparations to be completed. "If planning on engaging in high-risk activities such as skydiving, hunting, operating all-terrain vehicles or dirt bikes or scuba diving, Airmen should get with their supervisors to arrange completion of an Air Education and Training Command Form 410," Ser-geant Yerger instructed. In a memorandum for all Air Force personnel, Michael Donley, secretary of the Air Force and Gen. Norton Schwartz, Air Force chief of staff wrote, "Each of you should enjoy the season and celebrate in your own special way. However, we encourage you to celebrate responsibly. The Air Force needs you back at work, but more importantly, your friends and family need you in their lives."