Face of Defense: Colorado Airmen Practice Motorcycle Safety

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Emily Smith | Team Buckley members take off for the starting point of their ride during their safety ride May 15, 2015, on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. The 460th SCS had this motorcycle ride to give “on-the-job” training to ensure young members of the squadron know how to ride safely. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Emily E. Amyotte/Released)  

WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES

05.21.2015

Courtesy Story

Defense.gov         

For many motorcyclists, the coming of summer means it’s time to enjoy the warmer weather on two wheels.

Although feeling the wind in your hair can be enjoyable, riding motorcycles also brings many increased risks. The 460th Space Communications Squadron at Buckley Air Force Base here made an effort to combat these risks by having a motorcycle safety day.

“The main purpose of the ride was to bring awareness to safety and mentorship to newer riders,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Michael Moore, the squadron’s communications focal point noncommissioned officer in charge.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness

“It’s the riding season, and we needed to bring attention to all the hazards,” Moore said.

Employees from local motorcycle shops provided safety inspections and gave safety briefings, and the motorcyclists then took off on a 100-mile ride to safely start the summer season off on the right foot.

Wear a DOT-Approved Helmet

Safety officials say it’s critical to motorcycle riders’ safety that they always wear a U.S. Department of Transportation-approved helmet.

The Air Force had recognized the spring and summer months as the “Critical Days of Summer” safety program. Recently, that theme has been replaced and the Air Force has introduced the “Quest for Zero” safety program.

“‘Quest for Zero’ is more focused on on-duty mishaps,” said Gregory Q. Walker, Buckley AFB’s safety and occupational health manager.

Walker said he hopes the safety program also will help to prevent off-duty mishaps.

Here are some motorcycle safety tips provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

-- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear;

-- Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed;

-- Use hand and turn signals at every lane change or turn;

-- Wear brightly colored clothes and reflective tape to increase visibility;

-- Ride in the middle of the lane where you will be more visible to drivers; and

-- Never ride distracted or impaired.

And, there are ways to also stay safe this summer at the workplace, base officials said. Airmen should always:

-- Wear required personal protective equipment at work;

-- Ensure everyone is properly trained at work;

-- Keep work areas clear of hazards; and

-- Stay hydrated, especially if working outside.

Story by Air Force Airman 1st Class Emily E. Amyotte, 460th Space Wing

• Date Taken: 05.21.2015
• Date Posted: 07.03.2025 10:00
• Story ID: 503918
• Location: WASHINGTON, US