Risk Management Magazine

One night, I was on a night vision goggle training flight with my company instructor pilot and two crew members. The IP was a very experienced NVG aviator who was trained at the High-Altitude Army Aviation Training Site in Gypsum, Colorado, and made it a point to demonstrate mountain flying and pinnacle operations.

When it comes to injuries, those involving the back are among the most common. One false move is all it takes to put some folks out of commission indefinitely.

To ensure we got the most out of our stay, I planned out everything — from beach activities we hoped to do to restaurants we wanted to try. One thing I failed to plan for, however, nearly brought our trip to an early end.