Naval Hospital Beaufort Promotes Summer Safety

BEAUFORT, S.C. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Beaufort is hosting its first interactive safety stand downs to promote summer safety command-wide by offering hands-on experiences for Sailors and civilians alike. The first stand down was held May 16, and the second is scheduled for May 23.

While the concept of a safety stand down is not new and is required training for all military personnel, this year is the first time the naval hospital has set up hands-on exhibits to give staff real world experience with potential safety hazards.

"Our safety department is doing an excellent job at providing a motivating learning environment for our staff," said Capt. Melanie Merrick, Naval Hospital Beaufort's executive officer. "The interactive nature of this training really drives home several important safety concepts, and with everyone's participation, makes it more relevant so that everyone really thinks about the hazards of the warm weather activities they may participate in over the next few months. We want everyone, Sailors and civilians alike, to have a safe and enjoyable summer."

This year, the safety stand down is not only focusing on standard topics such as alcohol awareness, fire safety, and water safety, but the command is also including additional subject matter to enhance the event. New additions to the event include health promotions, to demonstrate proper stretching techniques and tools to use prior to fitness activities, the command motorcycle safety representative, and a staff podiatrist to provide information about running safety and foot health.

"After doing safety stand downs for many years, it becomes more and more challenging to come up with new ideas to keep the training fresh and relevant," said Susan Hollingsworth, Naval Hospital Beaufort's command safety manager. "Historically, we hold stand downs in an assembly setting with guest speakers. We have had some wonderful presentations and speakers in the past, but wanted to try a new venue. And what better setting for a summer safety campaign than outdoors in May in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Our goal is also to make the event fun to enhance learning. People learn differently with some absorbing knowledge by reading or listening to lectures, but others have more meaningful educational experiences by interaction."

Even though water safety is traditionally covered, this year, the safety department has brought in an officer from the South Carolina Department of National Resources, who arrived at the first stand down with a boat, to better inform attendees about water safety, emphasizing local hazards and regulations. Additionally, fire safety, another traditional topic, is being brought to life by personnel from Parris Island Fire Rescue who facilitate hands-on fire extinguisher training that includes putting out a live fire.

"This safety stand down was the best one that I have ever been to," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class, Andrea Hahn, the leading petty officer for dental at the Branch Health Clinic (BHC) MCAS Beaufort who attended the May 16 event. "This was so much better than being stuck inside an auditorium. It's important for the command to host a safety stand down to make people aware of the bigger seasonal hazards and teach them how to be prepared for anything."

The interactive display hosted by Chief Hospital Corpsman Amanda Hughes, the command's drug and alcohol programs advisor, was definitely one of the more popular interactive events at the first stand down.

"We provided several different goggles, each one representing a different blood alcohol content ranging from .06 to .25 and both day and night environments to help Sailors understand how much alcohol really does affect your ability to perform certain tasks," said Hughes. "I had staff wear the goggles while I ran them through some simple hand-eye coordination exercises, field sobriety tests, and then put them on a tricycle to negotiate an obstacle course, simulating getting behind the wheel. Many were surprised at what it's really like after just a few drinks."

Another new addition is a static display, complete with model feet, focusing on choosing the right running shoes based on your foot type and hosted by Cmdr. Christopher Kardohely, director of surgical services and staff podiatrist. According to Kardohely, the interactive format provides an opportunity for Sailors to ask questions that are applicable to them, making the event more useful and informative to participants on a personal level.

The display hosted by the command motorcycle safety representative, Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jeffrey Day, features motorcycles and an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about motorcycle safety.

"My goal is to make riders and potential riders aware of the proper protection equipment, riding techniques, and training courses offered by the Department of Defense," said Day. "It's extremely important for everyone to be aware of not only the dangers, but also the rewarding experience of riding a motorcycle."

The next summer safety stand down will take place at Branch Health Clinic Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island May 23, starting at 1 p.m.

Open since 1949, Naval Hospital Beaufort provides general medical, surgical, and emergency services to all active duty personnel, as well as retired military and family members residing in the Beaufort area, a total population of approximately 29,000 beneficiaries.



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