Installation commander provides holiday safety message

On Sunday, July 4, our great nation celebrates Independence Day. This day commemorates the founding of our country and a time we celebrate our freedoms we have fought so hard to maintain. Over the weekend and every day, remember that you have the personal freedom to make smart decisions about safety; personal responsibility is the cornerstone of accident prevention. Get involved, emphasize safety and lead by example.

1. Drive defensively.
• Watch out for drivers who may be impaired or distracted, and be prepared to give them plenty of room on the road.
• Check your vehicle before you drive. Underinflated tires overheat and fail. Check all fluids, wipers, brakes and exterior lights. Carry a fire extinguisher.
• Improve your visibility. In Virginia, "wipers on means headlights on."
• Use alcohol responsibly. If you drive, don't drink. Have a designated driver, and don't let others drive drunk.
• Seatbelts can save your life during an accident. Insist all passengers be restrained, as well.

2. Participation in the Travel Risks Planning System (TRiPS) before starting leave is mandatory for Soldiers and encouraged for civilians. TRiPS helps you to assess the risks of your travel plans, and is a proven tool to reduce accidents. TRiPS is at https://safety.army.mil.

3. Fort Belvoir has a spectacular professional fireworks display planned for July 4 at sunset on Fremont Field. Please consider leaving your fireworks at home and enjoying our Freedom Fest celebration.

4. This is a special holiday and you are a valuable member of our Fort Belvoir team. Please enjoy your holiday and celebrate smartly. Enjoy a great Independence Day.
Col. Jerry L. Blixt