JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- The holiday season offers a well-deserved opportunity to trade your uniform for your favorite comfortable “civvies,” and duty rosters for family dinners. As you join the holiday exodus to reconnect with loved ones, maintaining your situational awareness is key to ensuring a safe and memorable leave. Think of this as your pre-departure safety briefing to guarantee a successful “mission.”
Phase 1: Pre-Departure & Travel 🚗 ✈️
Your journey home is the first leg of your holiday mission. Whether you’re driving across the state or flying across the country, preparation is critical. Mishaps can spike during the mass exodus of military members going on leave, so plan carefully.
- Vehicle Inspection: Before a long road trip, get your vehicle checked. Ensure tires are properly inflated, and all maintenance is up to date.
- Plan Your Route: Check weather conditions and traffic forecasts along your travel route. Leave early and allow plenty of time to avoid the infamous “get-there-itis,” which can lead to risky decisions.
- Fatigue Management: Driving while tired is as dangerous as driving impaired. Get a full night’s sleep before you leave and take a break every two hours on the road. Avoid driving for more than eight hours straight.
- The Buddy System: Let your supervisor and a wingman know your travel plans. Don’t try to make the trip a surprise.
- Fly Smart: If you’re flying, be aware of TSA rules. Pack liquids according to the 3-1-1 rule and know that spare lithium batteries must be in your carry-on. Remember to be patient, as airports will be crowded.
Phase 2: Safe Operations While on Leave 🏡
Once you’re home, the mission shifts to rest, relaxation and reconnection. It’s easy to let your guard down in familiar surroundings, but it’s important to stay sharp and look out for your loved ones.
- Be a Home Safety Wingman: You’re a valuable resource. Help your family with holiday safety. Keep Christmas trees watered and away from heat sources, and check that decorations are used properly. If you see frayed light cords, suggest they be replaced. Use your risk management skills to help keep everyone safe.
- Kitchen and Grilling Safety: Home cooking fires peak during the holidays. If you’re helping in the kitchen or at the grill, never leave cooking unattended and keep flammable items away from the stove.
- Celebrate Responsibly: Enjoy the celebrations but do so responsibly. Never drink and drive and have a plan to get home safely if you plan to consume alcohol. Look out for your friends and family to ensure they do the same.
Phase 3: The Wingman Imperative ❤️
The holidays are a joyous time for many, but they can also be stressful. Remember to look out for your fellow Airmen.
- Check In: Reach out to your wingmen, especially those who may not have been able to travel home. A simple text or call can make a significant difference.
- Manage Stress: Leave can be a big transition. Take time to decompress and manage any holiday-related stress.
- Use Resources: If you or a fellow service member is struggling, the Air Force provides numerous resources. The chaplain, Military and Family Life Counseling and other support services are always available.
Your holiday leave is a time to recharge your batteries and make lasting memories. By applying the same diligence to your personal safety as you do to your official duties, you can ensure you return to your unit safe, sound and ready for the new year. Have a safe and happy holiday season!