Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012
Labor Day Safety: Remain vigilant while celebrating holiday
This Labor Day, we celebrate the American labor force as one of the great strengths of our nation. The first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. In 1884, the first Monday in September was designated as “Labor Day.”
I am glad that Labor Day will allow most of our team to spend time with family and friends. You deserve it! Thank you for your dedication to duty and invaluable contributions to our Army’s combat effectiveness. I wish you and your families a happy Labor Day.
As you enjoy the weekend, be vigilant and make good decisions. We need you. Recognize and manage risks associated with activities like boating, swimming, and grilling outdoors.
Some keys to ensuring your safety include:
•Arrive alive. Never drink and operate vehicles, watercraft, or motorcycles. Plan ahead for a designated driver when drinking is involved. There is no excuse for drinking and driving.
•Plan ahead. If traveling outside of the Fort Benning and Chattahoochee Valley area, all Soldiers must complete a Travel Risk Planning System (TRIPS) report, which can be found online at https://safety.army.mil.
•Prevent heat injury. Heat-related injuries are the result of overexposure to the sun and high temperatures. If you are planning to be outdoors, drink water and limit your activities during periods of extreme heat and high humidity.
•Practice motorcycle safety. All motorcyclists must wear personal protective equipment. In addition, motorcyclists must obey the posted speed limit signs. Do not attempt risky maneuvers on your motorcycle.
•Listen to and heed your leaders’ safety briefings.
•Be disciplined, professional, and look out for each other.
As we celebrate this holiday weekend, please pause to remember our fellow Soldiers who are serving around the world, especially those engaged in combat in Afghanistan.
Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day. One Force, One Fight!
— Maj. Gen. H. R. McMaster, commanding general
