The Source for Navy News

	Official U.S. Navy file photo.
	View Larger	Download HiRes

MCPON Releases Holiday Safety Message
Story Number: NNS071120-04
11/20/2007

Special from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy(MCPON)(SW/FMF) Joe R. Campa Jr.

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The holiday season is upon us and it's my hope that each of you are able to spend as much time as possible with your loved ones. For those of you far away from home, keep in mind the fact that we all appreciate what you continue to do on behalf of our Navy and our nation.

This time of year centers around family, friends and taking part in holiday traditions. As you travel our nation's highways please be aware of the following:
Since 2002, the navy traffic-death rate from Thanksgiving through New Years has been ten percent lower than the rest of the year. This shows that command emphasis on safe driving during this period pays off. We need to continue the efforts that are responsible for this positive trend.

For the sake of your families, your shipmates and yourselves be careful on the nation's roads over the course of this holiday season. The minute you step into a vehicle, there is potential for you to become a statistic if you don't remain aware of your surroundings and use a great deal of common sense.

Do not drink and drive. I believe every one of you understands the consequences of getting behind the wheel with alcohol in your system. At the very least, a DUI is a potential career ender. At worst, you could end up taking someone's life or losing your own.

All of you should be familiar with the Travel Risk Planning System. You can find it on the Navy Safety Center Homepage at www.safetycenter.navy.mil along with a number of other tools to assist you in preparing for the weeks ahead. I also urge you to visit the Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention website, www.npc.navy.mil/commandsupport/nadap. You'll find information there related to the Navy's "Prevention for the Holidays" campaign and reminders that December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month.

Those Web sites are effective tools but don't replace the impact of leadership especially when dealing with a subject as serious as this one.

I'm proud of all of you for what you do every day at sea and ashore. Have fun and enjoy the time you'll spend with your families, but do so safely.

For more news from the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, visit www.news.navy.mil/local/mcpon/.