Risk Management Magazine

Showing up to the mission in a fatigued state is unacceptable. This happens all too often in aviation. One of my recent flight manuals stated: “A pilot must show up to work free of stress.” Although we may not be stress-free, we may show up well rested and mentally ready to go the distance. A bright-eyed pilot is the best defense against adverse and sudden changes in the cockpit.

Since I am lucky enough to live in an area with year-round nice weather, I have eschewed the treadmill and opted to trek the sidewalks near my home. Now that I am spending more time as a pedestrian, I’ve discovered many drivers do not respect foot travelers (surprise!).

My commute to and from work is about as simple as I could want. I travel on rural roads, except for a 10-minute jaunt on a major highway. If I were ever to be involved in an accident, I figured the highway would be the most likely place due to the increased traffic I encounter there. Therefore, I tend to drive that stretch more cautiously. That reasoning helped contribute to a close call one lazy Sunday afternoon.