Getting into the “spring” of things Published March 24, 2010 By Col. Gary Goldstone 375th Air Mobility Wing commander SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The Operational Readiness Inspection has been launched and right now our teammates are at Volk Field undergoing a rigorous testing process. Our wartime readiness is the result of a year-long stream of training, conferences, coordination and validating, and the past several weeks have been especially intense. Through it all we've kept the installation running smoothly and provided our mission partners with continued superior support and services. Now that our wing is in the employment phase I'd like to remind everyone that Safe Mission Accomplishment is still our priority and we must also address a few safety topics that are guaranteed to gain relevance as our outdoor activities grow with the warmer temperatures. Motorcycle Safety Motorcyclists are sure to take advantage of the nice weather, and we must be vigilant in executing safe driving practices while sharing the roadways. For those who ride motorcycles, I urge you to review all safety requirements and realize that after a season off, your skills may be a little rusty. Please take the time to refresh those skills with a motorcycle safety course offered by wing safety, or ride along with other experienced cyclists. Our safety professionals remind us that motorcycles should be checked out each season to ensure they're in good operating condition, and for riders to be aware of road hazards left over from winter such as damage to roads and extra sand or gravel. Drivers also need to be aware of blind spots that could be shielding a rider from view. The last thing we want is a accident that could have been avoided. Riding can be a risky activity, but good Operational Risk Management can help mitigate the risks. Tornado Season Tornado season is another important issue that must be addressed. We will test the base notification process through the siren/Giant Voice tomorrow at 1 p.m., and we ask that everyone participate and practice their sheltering procedures. Do you know where to go? Do you have supplies on hand in your work sections? Do you have a family emergency plan and know what to do if phone lines go down or the power goes out? Sirens will alert you when a tornado has been sighted or is developing in the immediate area. They will consist of a three minute continuous steady tone, repeated for about 10 minutes, or as long as the tornado affects the base. Seek shelter in a storm cellar, basement, or in the center of the house or under a table, bed or mattress. If you are outside, lie flat in a ditch or culvert, but watch for flooding. More information on tornado safety can be found on page 11. Scott PRIDE While we're on the watch for stormy weather, another reminder that we're in full "spring" is that it gets extremely windy and trash tends to get blown out of its containers. Please keep an eye out for flying debris and help ensure our facilities and homes stay clean. We can all show Pride Where We Reside!. Keep up the great work! Team Scott is full of outstanding men and women who contribute greatly to our mission around the world, and to our communities at home. Whether it's Enabling Combat Power for America, teaching in our schools, or working full time in our homes, my appreciation goes out to everyone for making Scott AFB a great place to live and work! Keep up the great work and be safe! Please take a few moments to review safety precautions and disaster preparation tips as we "spring" through this season of change, and let's stay focused on completing an OUTSTANDING ORI!