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OKINAWA, Japan - The many festivals on Okinawa are fun-filled times, but there are dangers to be avoided.
Beginning in July and spanning through November, summer crowds are drawn to the numerous festivals hosted on island; these crowds will include Status of Forces Agreement personnel.
Festivals, while fun and a good way to build relations, can set the stage for accidents and injuries, requiring a good risk mitigation plan, said Aaron Davis, an occupational safety and health specialist with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler.
“Some crowds at the events on Okinawa are packed elbow to elbow with thousands of people in a small area,” said Cpl. Daniel Lansing, a field wireman with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Aircraft Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “In some areas of a crowd, it is easy to lose sight of a family member or a liberty buddy.”
Lansing said one of the ways he avoids losing Marines in a forest of people is by exchanging phone numbers and establishing a place to meet if seperated.
According to Lansing, crowds are at their most dangerous when people are panicked.
“Avoid crowds if you’re uncomfortable in close, confined areas,” said Lansing.
Another danger at crowded events are the vehicles clogging the streets at the event’s end.
“Once a festival closes, all personnel attempt to leave at the same time causing lengthy traffic jams,” said Davis. “The best way to avoid this is to travel to these festivals and or events in a taxi or by foot to avoid traffic.”
According to Davis, another risk present when attending events on Okinawa is heat injury and dehydration.
Okinawa is a unique cultural experience that those stationed here should enjoy; just be safe, said Davis.
“The best way to avoid an accident is to use risk management, take a buddy, stay hydrated and remember to have a good time,” he said.
| Date Taken: | 08.19.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 08.18.2011 20:54 |
| Story ID: | 75595 |
| Location: | OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 112 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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