Motorcycle Safety - CPO Call to Action

Shipmates,
I want to take a minute and talk about motorcycle safety. As many of you know this has been on the forefront of all safety messages for several months now. However, we are still not doing our part as Sailors in ensuring we are adhering to the rules and regulations governing this extremely important safety matter. If you own a motorcycle of any sort, it is your responsibility to have the proper personal equipment (PPE) and the proper training to operate that bike. Whether you ride the bike on base or off, PPE and training are required.

This is my challenge to you … if you have not told your chain of command that you have a motorcycle, you’ve got to do it now! Your Chief or Chiefs will ensure you have the tools needed to be ready to ride that motorcycle. When I say tools, I mean training.

We continue to lose Sailors and Marines in what are preventable accidents. There is no coming back from a fatal miscalculation on a motor-bike, no matter how cool it felt while you were motoring down the road. Nobody thinks it’s going to be them. Tell that to your buddy who just bought a “crotch rocket” and can’t wait to get it on the highway.

On another note, the Navy and Marine Corps have teamed with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and developed a course tailored to sport bikes. Check out this promotional video and learn more about properly preparing yourself for sport bikes. http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/ashore/motorvehicle/motorcycle/MSCRad.asp

Also, if you want more information on motorcycle safety, check out the Navy Safety Center Web site at www.safetycenter.navy.mil/ashore/motorvehicle/motorcycle/default.htm

Bottom line, Shipmates! Safety is everyone’s issue! So, let’s take a round turn and take care of this issue. Your life and the life of your Shipmate’s depend on it. Fleet Howard sends.