Naval Safety Command’s 2024 Fall & Winter Awareness Presentation Makes a Comeback

NORFOLK, Va. — The Naval Safety Command (NAVSAFECOM) has commenced its Fall and Winter Safety campaign for fiscal year 2025 as of October 1st. This annual initiative is set to continue through February, aiming to highlight and educate naval personnel about seasonal risks and weather-specific hazards.

Throughout the past three years, off-duty incidents, particularly motor vehicle-related ones, have resulted in numerous emergencies. From October through February across fiscal years 2022-2024, motor vehicle incidents were tragically common. Seventy Sailors and Marines lost their lives, and eleven were grievously injured, sustaining permanent disabilities.

Breaking it down further, motorcycle accidents claimed 29 lives, auto collisions accounted for 38 fatalities, and pedestrian accidents resulted in three deaths. An astonishing 481 service members suffered injuries, ranging from concussions to severe fractures necessitating surgery.

The sports of snowboarding and skiing over these seasons also posed significant risks. More than 50 personnel were injured in related incidents, often resulting in the need for surgery. Common injuries included traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and various fractures.

Additional hazards included fire pit accidents and falls from ladders, particularly when hanging holiday lights or conducting maintenance. These incidents led to severe injuries, such as fractured ribs and hips. Icy conditions caused falls, contributing to cases of skull fractures and concussions.

Recreational activities, including skateboarding and unfortunate falls, resulted in nine additional off-duty deaths. These mishaps are largely preventable, primarily caused by human error and poor decision-making.

“These are terrible losses that extend beyond the individual,” stated Rear Adm. Daniel P. Martin of NAVSAFECOM. “Every injury or fatality impacts their unit, their family, and the mission.” His emphasis on this broader impact underscored the gravity of the situation.

Martin highlighted that those lost served in essential roles, including navigators, engineers, and medical personnel, among others. The absence of even one member increases workload and overall risk within the unit.

NAVSAFECOM is urging leaders, peers, and families to guide service members in assessing risks better. A few preventative steps can significantly reduce potential dangers during tasks or sports.

“Risk assessment should be a constant conversation,” emphasized Martin. Moving beyond merely fulfilling training requirements, risk mindfulness should integrate into all activities, on and off duty.

To support this mission, NAVSAFECOM will distribute weekly media products addressing various safety topics from motor vehicles to holiday-related hazards. The focus is to raise awareness and present safety tips to help avoid injuries during common seasonal activities.

“This is serious business,” Martin added. “Each life lost compromises our operational effectiveness and deeply affects families and colleagues.”

The Fall and Winter Safety Awareness presentation and other resources are accessible on the Naval Safety Command’s official website.