101 Critical Days of Summer: Not done yet Published Sept. 6, 2006 By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel 48th Fighter Wing commander ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The tell tale signs of autumn's approach are everywhere. While the morning chill is the most obvious, other subtle signs include the school supplies-stocked base exchange and color-streaked leaves on trees and yards. Although the leaves will soon change completely and scatter along our streets and gardens, fall isn't here yet - and the 101 Critical Days of Summer aren't over yet, either. Labor Day, Sept. 2, marks the end of the Air Force's 101 CDS campaign. Historically, the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day mark an increase in Air Force mishaps. Many factors contribute to the rise in accidents and fatalities during the summer months, but the primary reasons are an increase in travel associated with vacationing/summer holidays and increased participation in recreational activities. Vehicle accidents, some nearly fatal, and an increase in DUIs have plagued our wing this summer. Although I understand accidents happen, most are avoidable with common sense and proper planning. As you enjoy your time off this long Labor Day weekend, please heed the following advice so we can avoid further 101 CDS incidents: Alcohol consumption - Zero alcohol-related incidents, our wing goal, can be achieved in three ways: not drinking, not driving if you do drink, and if you do drink, consuming no more than one unit of alcohol per hour and no more than three units of alcohol per night.Remember, ZOT is not a formula to know when you can get behind the wheel after drinking, but it is a way to keep other alcohol-related incidents from happening. Traveling - Be sober, be vigilant and be well-rested. Ensure everyone wears a seat belt if traveling by car, and road conditions, weather conditions and vehicle conditions are checked before departure. Airmen traveling to the continental Europe must submit a leave form or Liberty Pass, if appropriate, to their commander for approval. Motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles - Don't operate any motor bike or ATV without proper training and personal protective equipment. The rule of thumb on the road is to assume you are invisible to everyone around you. Outdoor activities - Ensure you are physically fit to participate in the activities you undertake. Many injuries and accidents occur because Airmen overestimate their ability, skills or physical stamina when participating in sports and outdoor adventures. Take the weather into account, also, because conditions can be dramatically different from area to area. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, use sunscreen and drink plenty of water; conversely, pack rain and cold weather gear as appropriate. Simply put, ask yourself what could go wrong and plan for it. Most mishaps involve alcohol, fatigue, darkness, bad weather, poor judgment or inappropriate risk-taking. Apply the risk management principles you practice every day on the job to your personal lives this weekend. You've earned your time off, so take this last hurrah of summer to relax and enjoy yourselves, but do it safely by making smart decisions.