Protective gear key to motorcycle safety

  • Published
  • By Capt. Elizabeth A. Caraway
  • 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  As rising temperatures chase away the Ohio winter chill, some 445th Airlift Wing personnel may choose motorcycles over cars for their daily commute. Military riders, however, must adhere to mandatory safety guidelines while in military status.

Motorcycle safety training, available off base, is required for all military personnel. Members are reimbursed for the cost of the civilian-provided course. Also, although Ohio state law doesn't require wearing a helmet, according to Air Force Instruction 91-207, The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program, Air Force military and civilian personnel must wear full protective gear during motorcycle use, including a helmet, bright reflective top with long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and sturdy, over-the-ankle footwear. Chapter 3.4, Operator and Passenger Protection, spells out the specific requirements.

Motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37 percent effective in preventing fatal injuries, but many people may not know that most injuries occur to the lower body. Choose pants reinforced at the knees and hips as well as thick leather boots. Gloves are critically important, as well; in a fall, people instinctively put their hands out. Choose gloves with knitted Kevlar or reinforced leather palms.

Military members new to the 445th should see Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Pearson, 445th Airlift Wing ground and weapons safety manager, or their unit motorcycle safety representative to ensure they are listed in the Air Force-wide motorcycle rider database. Inclusion is optional for civilian personnel.

For those personnel who don't ride a motorcycle, Pearson urges drivers to, "Look twice. Look for the bicycle and the motorcycle. They can be hard to see and blend into the surroundings. When you do see them, give them space."

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will conduct a base Motorcycle Safety Day at the National Museum of the United States Air Force May 31 beginning at 10 a.m. For more information, call (937) 904-3391.