JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The safety of every attendant at 2011 Joint Service Open House here cannot be guaranteed, however the men and women running the show have taken an entire year to prepare.
The largest threat to air show attendants is dehydration. Potable water is plentiful and free on the flightline.
"Guests should look around them as often as they are looking up at the sky," said Senior Airman Cornelie Hall, 779th Medical Group. "We have water buffaloes throughout the flightline. There are cups and water, so if your thirsty, grab one!"
Water buffaloes are large, camouflage-painted water tanks attended by Airmen who ensure cleanliness and safety for thirsty guests. Each is labeled "potable water."
Airman Hall works in the triage unit setup, in hangar four of the Andrews flightline. Medical technicians are staffed, and 150 cots are available to care for guests who, in military style, 'fall out' due to too much exertion and not enough water.
"While the sun can definitely sap you of energy, it can also burn you," said Airman 1st Class Cody Hudnall, 779th MDG. "We've got free sunscreen, earplugs, and some lotions available if people are burned."
Water in bottles can be a medics best friend, but if it falls from the sky, it can create a whole new set of problems.
Most static aircraft on the flightline are hands, and feet-on displays. All accessible displays can present slip-and-fall hazards if an unexpected shower douses JSOH.
"Basically, there's nothing we can do, except advise people to be careful on all the displays," said Master Sgt. Samuel Shrewsbury, 579th Medical Group, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Md. "If something goes wrong, we have people patrolling on foot, in golf carts, and at stations all over this flightline."
Vendors are on hand as well, providing sunscreen, water bottles, umbrellas, plastic panchos, hoodies and hats too all those willing to pony up the cash required to stay cool and dry.
Shelter abounds throughout the open house. Hangar three is crammed with displays ranging from patriotically painted cars to high-tech gyrocopters used by law enforcement. Sharp eyes can also locate the table maintained by Joint Special Operations Command and Special Forces.
Anything in the shade can provide temporary relief for sun-weary guests.
Should the worst happen, special golf carts are outfitted to provide basic and advanced life support.
"Our goal is to not be surprised by anything," said Sergeant Shrewsbury, "But we have the personnel and expertise here to deal with just about anything."