JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Safety personnel from the 316th Wing are taking a closer look at ways to keep drivers and pedestrians protected on the installation. To ensure this, the safety team is concentrating on a basic element of driver awareness: driving courses for first-term Airmen.
"We're emphasizing our classes to keep our base roads safe," said Lt. Col. James Zegel, 316 WG chief of safety. "We currently offer a course called 'Three A' to Airmen as well as a course called 'Three B,' which is taken as a refresher about a year after."
Outlined in the courses are the imperative aspects of maintaining a safe driving etiquette.
"The 'Three A' and 'Three B' classes are for Airmen and officers in their first term of enlistment and range from age 18 to 25," said Senior Airman Anthony Little, 316 WG ground safety technician. "During both classes, we talk about paying attention to your surroundings while operating a vehicle, including using a cellular phone or becoming distracted by a passenger."
Classes are imperative to everyone on the installation, but are especially important to inexperienced drivers coming to the base.
"We conduct training during each First Term Airmen Center induction class as well as newcomer's briefings," Colonel Zegel said. "Classes last for more than three hours and are concluded with a verbal assessment that is held through class participation."
These driving courses are not only important to maintain a safe posture while driving, they may also provide some monetary benefits.
"Depending on your car insurance company, completing the courses can provide you with a discount," said Airman Little. "To find out if you qualify, contact your car insurance provider."