101 Days of Summer Campaign

By Asif B. Thaj Deputy Safety Director, NSA Bahrain

Celebrating the start of its 101 Days of Summer Campaign, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain Safety and Occupational Health Department hosted a Summer Safety and Health Fair on 14th May 14th, 2023 from 0900 to 1300. Attracting over 1000 individuals, the event was a success, showcasing more than 30 booths on a wide range of topics. The objective was to promote safety and wellbeing, particularly with regards to the summer season. This fair was part of NSA Bahrain's Summer Safety initiative, which is devoted to safeguarding military, civilian personnel, and their families during the hotter months.

The fair, held at the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), provided a vibrant platform for local hospitals and organizations to share valuable information and resources with attendees, raising awareness about various health and safety concerns. Alongside the booths dedicated to summer safety, several other key booths were present, each addressing important aspects of well-being and safety.

Promoting safety awareness was a primary emphasis at the fair, and the Safety and Occupational Department (Safety Department) hosted a booth dedicated to general safety. Valuable information regarding workplace and personal safety was provided. Attendees gained knowledge on preventing accidents and injuries in various settings, giving them the tools to create a safer environment for themselves and those close to them. This booth truly enhanced overall safety awareness.

Motorcycle safety was another crucial aspect highlighted at the fair. A booth specifically focused on motorcycle safety provided attendees with valuable information on proper helmet usage, defensive riding techniques, motorcycle maintenance, and the importance of following traffic laws. Experts in motorcycle safety engaged with participants, addressing their queries and emphasizing the significance of responsible riding habits.

The booths dedicated to summer safety attracted significant attention, as attendees sought valuable tips and advice to enjoy the summer months safely. Medical professionals from the Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit (NMRTU) Bahrain as well as local hospitals such as American Mission Hospital and Royal Bahrain Hospital were present to provide guidance. Attendees had the opportunity to undergo blood sugar tests and have their blood pressure checked at dedicated booths. These screenings allowed individuals to assess their health status and gain insights into potential risk factors. Medical professionals were present to provide guidance and recommendations based on the results, emphasizing the importance of preventive care and early detection of health conditions.

Safety gear was given away at the bicycle safety booth, making it a definite fair standout. People learned a lot about bicycle safety there and even had the extra incentive of being entered into a raffle to win some gear, such as helmets and lights. The interactive nature of the booth was quite the attraction and ensured that attendees got all the crucial safety information they needed. By distributing helmets and lights, the booth aimed to ensure that cyclists had the necessary protective gear to enhance their safety on the roads. Mr. Ayala Ciriaco and PO3 Jonathan Nye, experts in bicycle safety were available at the booth to engage with participants, addressing their questions and concerns. They provided guidance on proper helmet fitting, discussed the significance of using lights and reflectors for visibility, and emphasized the importance of following traffic rules and using hand signals while cycling. This booth served as a valuable resource for both seasoned cyclists and those new to biking, promoting safe practices and encouraging the adoption of responsible habits.

The Fire Prevention booth highlighted essential fire safety measures, including fire evacuation procedures, and the importance of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Fire Prevention Inspectors offered practical advice and demonstrations on fire prevention and response, ensuring attendees were equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves and their families from fire hazards.

Mental health hosted a booths (by Fleet and Family Support Center & Chaplain, NSA Bahrain) dedicated to promoting emotional well-being and providing resources for stress management. Mental health professionals were available to engage in confidential discussions, offer guidance on maintaining good mental health, and provide information on available support services. The booth aimed to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and encourage open conversations about emotional wellbeing.

The United States Embassy provided consular services via their booth, which was quite popular with attendees. Their presence provided convenience to the installation personnel vice the usual process of visiting the embassy in person.

Recreation safety was another critical focus at the fair. Booths provided information on safe practices during outdoor activities. Attendees learned about proper equipment usage, preparation for emergencies, and how to stay safe while enjoying recreational pursuits. The booth aimed to instill a culture of safety-consciousness among personnel and their families during their leisure time.

During the fair, attendees were privileged to have a booth dedicated to promoting road safety by the General Directorate of Traffic, Ministry of Interior, Kingdom of Bahrain. Expert opinions were freely shared on topics ranging from traffic regulations, the significance of following speed limits, and impact of drug or alcohol abuse on driving. Adequate guidance was provided to ensure that everyone present at the fair was armed with ample knowledge to responsibly navigate the roads during summer.

The fair also featured the participation of esteemed organizations dedicated to supporting service members and their families. The Wounded Warrior Project had a booth, offering resources and assistance to injured veterans and their families. The Fleet and Family Service Center provided information on various support services, including financial counseling, deployment support, and family advocacy programs.

Attendees also had the opportunity to learn about the importance of pet safety and veterinary services through a booth dedicated to veterinary care by NSA Bahrain Veterinary Services. Experts shared tips on responsible pet ownership, preventive healthcare for animals, and offered information on available veterinary services within the community.

Other entities that took part in this event are Drug and Alcohol Advisor (DAPA), Sexual Assault & Prevention (SAPR), Emergency Management Officer (EMO), NSA Bahrain Ombudsman, Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU), NavyMarine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS).

The collaborative efforts of the Safety and Occupational Department (NSA Safety Department), local hospitals, and various organizations contributed to the fair's success in promoting safety and well-being. By uniting these stakeholders and providing a diverse range of booths, the event created a comprehensive and interactive experience, ensuring attendees had access to vital information across multiple domains of health and safety.

Commander Ernesto Rivera, Executive Officer of NSA Bahrain, expressed his satisfaction with the fair's success and the inclusion of summer safety topics. He stated, "The Safety and Health Fair served as a fantastic opportunity to educate and empower our personnel to make informed decisions when it comes to their well-being, especially during the summer months. By addressing summer safety, we aim to ensure that individuals can enjoy this season to the fullest while minimizing risks and staying healthy."

The reach of the Safety and Health Fair exceeded beyond those who attended. Participants will share their newfound knowledge and heightened awareness with acquaintances and loved ones. A component of the Naval Safety Command's 101 Days of Summer Campaign, the fair was a noteworthy tool in empowering naval personnel and their families to maintain safety and health this summer.

Expressing his satisfaction and enthusiasm with the safety and health fair, the coordinator, Prasanth Dharmaraj, Safety Specialist, shared his thoughts on the event. "Witnessing the level of turnout and engagement at the fair has made us thrilled," Prasanth Dharmaraj stated. "Our goal was to create a platform that would promote safety and well-being among personnel and their families that would be interactive and informative. It was truly inspiring to witness over 1000 attendees actively participating in the booths and engaging with the experts."

The Safety Department plans to build on this success and continue organizing similar initiatives in the future. By leveraging the effectiveness of events like the Safety and Health Fair, they aim to foster a culture of safety, promote overall well-being, and ensure the community remains resilient and prepared during the summer months and beyond.