This past Memorial Day weekend, we kicked off the 100 Days of Summer safety campaign. From now through Labor Day, this safety campaign is intended to remind us that we cannot afford to lose focus on safety, whether we are on or off duty. Warm months bring many opportunities for family fun, but that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if safety is not our number one priority.

Previously, we have seen that the number of accidents, including motor vehicle, increases during the summer months. If you are riding a motorcycle, be sure to have the appropriate personal protective equipment. In a car, always wear your seatbelt and ensure that children are properly restrained. It is extremely important to remember to never leave pets or children unattended in vehicles for any amount of time. Even if it is just for a few minutes, in high temperatures, this can be a deadly mistake.

This summer season, as you enjoy your family vacations and venture out to social gatherings, the Fort Detrick command challenges you to keep the number of days with alcohol-related incidents to zero. As of today, currently we have had 174 days without any incidents. I want to see that number continue to grow!

When planning your summer activities, remember the effects of alcohol or prescription drugs, and identify the risks associated with impairment while participating in various activities. It is not worth your life, or anyone else’s, to attempt to drive after consuming a few drinks.

Think ahead when planning summer vacations and ensure you know where you are going to avoid distractions while operating a vehicle.

Keep in mind that you do not have to venture far, or spend a lot of money, to have fun this summer. Below are some ideas for budget-friendly summer activities:

- Attend an outdoor concert- Baker Park offers free musical entertainment every Sunday night starting in June.

- DIY projects- make your own glow-in-the-dark bubbles, build a birdhouse, or create your own tye-dyed t-shirts.

- Plant a garden- this can be a fun activity that is ongoing and that also teaches kids how to grown their own nutritious food.

- Enjoy nature through walking, fishing or camping.

- Visit the National Zoo- admission to the National Zoo if free and metro accessible.

- Family game night- pick an evening during the week or weekend and have a pre-planned family game activity. These can include games like kickball, softball, or capture the flags. For a rainy evening, break out the board games.

Do not forget to join the Installation Safety Office and Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation for Summer Safety Day on June 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the commissary parking lot. This will be the final celebration of National Safety Month.

The event will discuss safety tips for traveling during summer months, including how to pack an emergency kit, planning for vacation—from booking a cruise to a weekend on the beach or ensuring your home is safe and ready for hosting events. Starting at 1 p.m. there will be a Distracted Driving Simulator for individuals to test their driving skills.

For more information about summer safety, call the Fort Detrick Safety Office at (301) 619-7318.