Seatbelt, cell phone policy to save lives Published April 22, 2010 By Jeff Bohn 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- -- Col. Stephen N. Whiting, 21st Space Wing commander, said it is his responsibility to promote programs that save lives, including the proper use of seatbelts and cell phones. "Unfortunately, not everyone takes advantage of the proven effectiveness of seatbelts or refrains from the use of cell phones while driving," Colonel Whiting said. "The loss of even one Airman, civilian, contractor or Air Force family member is unacceptable, especially when that loss is preventable." The commander's statements follow his recent signing of policy that clearly articulates the use of seatbelts and compliance of proper cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle. This policy applies to all motor vehicle operators on Peterson regardless of duty status. The Department of Defense Instruction 6055.4, "DoD Traffic Safety Program" and the Air Force Space Command supplement to Air Force Instruction 91-207, "The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program," state the requirements for seatbelt usage and cell phone restrictions while operating a motor vehicle on government installations. In addition, Colorado state laws apply as the majority of Peterson AFB is on leased land and subject to Colorado traffic laws. This policy came to the installation's forefront because of continued seatbelt and cell phone policy violations and the need for additional enforcement and consequences. "Any prudent person traveling on Peterson Air Force Base can see multiple infractions each day," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Van Sanford, 21st Space Wing chief of safety. "Our job in the wing safety office is to promote a culture of safety for all personnel with the goal of mishap prevention. Commanders, supervisors, and the 21st Security Forces Squadron continue to enforce compliance with Air Force Instructions." Additionally, Colonel Van Sanford said, " The operator of a motor vehicle will not talk or text on a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion. An exception is for hands-free devices or hands-free operating mode. Wearing any form of portable headphones, earphones, or other listening devices while operating a motor vehicle on Peterson AFB is prohibited with an exception for hands-free telephone headset or single ear bud piece." Using most other listening devices may hinder or prevent recognition of emergency signals, alarms, announcements, approach of vehicles, human speech and the ability to determine the sound's direction -- all of which can lead to an unnecessary mishap. According to the policy, the 21st Security Forces Squadron law enforcement officers can stop any vehicle being operated in violation of these policies. Violators could lose base driving privileges for up to 30 days. This applies to all personnel including active duty, Reserve, contractors, civilians, and family members driving on base. "The operator of a motor vehicle is responsible for ensuring that all vehicle occupants properly use appropriate restraint devices while the vehicle is in motion, including children in an appropriate child safety seat," said Colonel Van Sanford. "Ultimately, enforcement of safety relies with the driver. With some additional incentives through leadership's support, the base will become a safer place to drive." For information, call the safety office at 556-4392.