The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT) safety manager is reminding service members, civilian employees and their families to maintain safety awareness as they prepare for what is generally viewed as the end of summer.

CNATT Safety Manager Krystal Hancock said Labor Day, a federal holiday designed to honor the achievements of American workers, includes an extended weekend, with service members and their families often electing to travel to see family and friends.

"Whether taking a long, road trip or simply jumping in the car to run a quick errand, driving is inherently risky and traffic mishaps continue to be a leading reason for lost time, days, and lives across our force," she said.

Hancock said the National Safety Council (NSC) predicts this could be the deadliest Labor Day weekend for drivers in eight years, estimating more than 430 people could be killed in traffic accidents throughout the weekend. She added service members, often separated from their families and traveling significant distances to visit during the long weekend, should take some simple precautions before and during their trips.

"Get enough rest before heading out; sleepy driving is as dangerous as impaired driving," she said. "Alternate drivers or take frequent breaks to ensure that whoever is behind the wheel stays alert."

Hancock added the NSC also reported there have been nine percent more fatal motor vehicle accidents from January through June of this year compared to the same time in 2015, and Navy statistics show 16 Navy and Marine Corps service members have been killed in traffic mishaps since the end of May this year.

"Don't let your guard down; every time you get in an automobile, no matter how routine it feels, do the basic things to preempt potential issues," she said. "Buckle up, designate a sober driver, put down your phone, comply with the rules of the road, and make sure to keep a watch out for other people who aren't taking the same precautions."

Hancock also said service members and their families historically participate in numerous recreational activities during the Labor Day weekend including backyard barbecues, trips to a lake or beaches, pool parties and outings to parks. She added although summer is coming to an end, mitigating the risk of injury via methods learned through training and education, and reminding personnel of how to avoid potential mishaps is part of the CNATT and Naval Safety Center mission.

"Practicing safe behavior in everything we do -- from our jobs, to our hobbies, to simply driving to the grocery store -- is something we hope becomes second nature," she said. "Being cognizant of the numerous everyday factors that could potentially cause us issues is something the CNATT Safety Program stresses, and providing the right resources and awareness to our staff and students is our goal."

According to Hancock, service members, civilian employees and their families in the Pensacola, Florida area might also expect stronger rip currents if they venture to the beach this weekend, due in part to the incoming tropical storm. She suggested individuals check weather and surf conditions before going to the beach and to always swim with a friend and refrain from diving into unknown waters.

Hancock said although safety considerations are often stressed during extended holiday weekends, ensuring each and every service member, civilian employee and family member is aware of potential safety concerns remains a CNATT priority throughout the year.

"The CNATT family -- with military and civilian personnel at detachments and units around the United States, Japan and Hawaii -- are all working to ensure that we're training the best and brightest Sailors and Marines for duty throughout the fleet," she said. "Having each and every one of these students and their instructors enjoy some much needed time with their family and friends and returning safely is what we want."

CNATT is the technical training agent for the Naval Aviation Enterprise, an organization designed to advance and sustain naval aviation warfighting capabilities at an affordable cost, and is the largest training center under the Naval Education and Training Command.

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