Cell phones and driving dont mix Published Sept. 21, 2009 By Jonathan Hicks 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Today's lifestyle is fast paced and mobile. Cell phones provide a convenient way of communication and portable access to information. However, they can also be dangerous, and cell phone use while driving on Keesler is strictly prohibited without a hands-free device. The policy applies to all Air Force installations and any government owned, leased or rented vehicles driven off the installation. Staff Sgt. Sheralyn Gonzalez, 81st Security Forces Squadron emphasizes that hands-free means just that -- hands-free. "Many people believe it's OK to drive on base and hold their cell phone to talk as long as they use the phone's speaker function -- that's not the case," she said. "If you're not using a hand-free device and are holding the phone, you are in violation of the base policy -- no exceptions. This includes texting, walkie-talkies, and other push to talk devices." The policy also applies while driving in base housing. Penalties for violations apply to both military and civilian employees. For military members, first-time offenders are cited points and lose base driving privileges for seven days; second offense, a citation and loss of base driving privileges for 30 days; and third offense, a citation and loss of driving privileges on base for a year. For civilians, first-time violators receive a citation with a fine and a loss of base driving privileges for seven days; second offense, a citation with fine and loss of base driving privileges for 30 days; and third offense, a citation with fine and loss of driving privileges for a year. Penalties also are enforced on dependents, retirees and contractors. A recent Air Education and Training Command memorandum directed base security forces and wing safety personnel to increase enforcement of this policy. For more information, call 376-6600.