RENAY BRANFORT
Irwin Army Community Hospital
Fort Riley, Kansas
Each June, National Safety Month serves as an important reminder that safety is everyone’s responsibility — both on and off duty. For military communities, safety is more than a workplace priority; it is essential to mission readiness, family well-being and protecting the health of those who serve our nation. Soldiers and military families face unique challenges and demands. Whether at work, at home, during training or traveling, making safe choices every day helps prevent injuries, reduce stress and strengthen the overall readiness of our force.
Safety supports readiness
A healthy and safe Soldier is a ready Soldier. Preventable injuries and illnesses can affect not only individual service members, but also units, families and mission capability. Practicing safety in all environments helps ensure military personnel remain prepared to perform their duties. Important safety practices include:
- Wearing proper personal protective equipment during work and training activities
- Using safe driving habits, including wearing a seat belt and avoiding distracted driving
- Practicing heat injury prevention and hydration during outdoor activities
- Following firearm and equipment safety procedures
- Reporting unsafe conditions or hazards promptly
Small actions can prevent serious injuries and save lives.
Safety begins at home
Safety awareness extends beyond the workplace. Military families also play a vital role in creating safe environments at home and in the community. Taking steps to prevent mishaps, prepare for emergencies and support overall wellness helps protect loved ones and strengthens family resilience. Families can support safety by:
- Creating emergency plans and maintaining emergency kits
- Practicing fire safety and home hazard prevention
- Ensuring proper child and vehicle safety practices
- Staying aware of seasonal and environmental safety risks
Strong families contribute to a strong and resilient military community.
Building a culture of safety
Safety is most effective when it becomes part of daily routines and organizational culture. Leaders, healthcare teams, Soldiers, civilian staff and family members all contribute to maintaining safe environments through accountability, communication and teamwork. National Safety Month is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to protecting one another through smart decisions, situational awareness and proactive prevention.
Safety is not just a policy — it is a commitment to caring for ourselves, our teammates and our families. By making safety a daily priority, we help preserve readiness, protect our communities and ensure that those who serve can continue to do so safely.
FYI
For more information about National Safety Month, visit the National Safety Council website at https://www.nsc.org/workplace/national-safety-month.