R 291759Z AUG 12

ALCOAST 394/12
COMDTNOTE 5100
SUBJ: DONT LET YOUR GUARD DOWN: MOTOR VEHICLE AND RECREATIONAL
OFF-DUTY SAFETY
A. Safety and Environmental Health Manual, COMDTINST M5100.47
(series)
B. Motor Vehicle and Recreational Off-Duty Safety Manual, COMDTINST
M5100.5 (series)
1.  Each summer brings opportunities to enjoy traditional summer
activities and spend time with family and friends.  Many of us have
spent this summer transferring to new commands.  Each area of the
country offers recreational activities that may not have been
available at a previous command.  As you consider trying a new
recreational activity, take the time to obtain proper training and
use proper protective equipment.  Proper risk assessment and
implementation of safety procedures greatly increases the fun while
reducing the chance of being involved in a mishap.
2.  Summer motor vehicle and recreational activity mishaps continue
to plague the Coast Guard family.  Since Memorial Day weekend, the
Coast Guard has lost one member to a motorcycle mishap and one member
to a motor vehicle mishap. Although fatal mishap numbers have
declined, two is still too many.  Injuries from motor vehicle and
recreational activities are down from FY11, however, they are still
occurring.  These injuries have an impact on our ability to perform
the mission.  The Coast Guard is a small service that relies on each
member to be ready to perform 24 hours a day.  Members decisions to
take unnecessary risks leading to injuries impact their command and
fellow crew members.  Poor decisions can affect family members too.
Take the time to consider the consequences before deciding to swim in
an unfamiliar area, drive without wearing a seatbelt, or speeding on
your motorcycle.  Good decisions will reduce your risk of being
involved in a mishap.
3.  In June 2012, the Motor Vehicle and Recreational Off-Duty Safety
Manual, COMDTINST M5100.5 (series), replaced chapter 10 of Ref (a).
This new manual contains new and updated safety and personal risk
management policies.  These policies were developed with your
protection in mind.  All CG personnel have a personal responsibility
to safeguard themselves, their families, and their fellow workers
from unnecessary risks.
4.  The Health, Safety and Work-life Service Center (HSWL SC) has
established motor vehicle and motorcycle safety information pages on
the Coast Guard Portal.  These pages are filled with great safety
information command representatives and members can use for training
or personal development.  Additionally, a copy of Ref (b) and most
frequently asked questions (FAQ) about vehicle safety concerns can be
found at: https://cgportal.uscg.mil/delivery/Satellite/HSWL/SHORE.
5.  Traditionally, Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer.  Many
of us will be planning one last weekend of fun summer activities with
family and friends.  This holiday weekend, I challenge all members to
step back and review your weekend activities to ensure you implement
safety precautions that allow for a safe and fun-filled weekend.
6.  Commanding officers and officers-in-charge should remind their
crew members to apply risk management principles to their off-duty
activities.  All members must take responsibility for their personal
safety and the safety of others.
7.  COMDT (CG-1132) POC is Mr. Dale A. Wisnieski, Email:
dale.a.wisnieski (AT) uscg.mil, Comm: 202-475-5206.
8.  RADM Maura K. Dollymore, Director of Health, Safety and Work-Life
sends.
9.  Internet Release Authorized.