Wing safety offers tips to prevent bird hazards

19 Jan 2010 |

The U.S. Air Force Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) program is the primary source to minimize wildlife and bird issues that could negatively impact the airfield and airspace environment surrounding Dobbins.

Thanks the vigilance of 94th Airlift Wing members and other USAF personnel, 2009 was the safest flying year in USAF history. Continued vigilance in 2010 can help reduce the number of safety mishaps, especially those concerning birds.

Here are just a few things members should do to help prevent bird hazards at Dobbins.

1. Don't feed birds on base. When birds have a ready food source they will remain in the area and that could lead to larger flocks of nesting or flocking birds.

2. Keep dumpsters and outdoor trash bins closed/lidded at all times. Report overflowing trash or open dumpsters to the appropriate Facility Manager. Crows are attracted to shiny objects and to dumpsters. Crows not only feed from dumpsters, they use materials from the dumpster to build nests. Other birds are attracted due to the known food source.

3. Report sightings of large flocks of birds to Wing Safety at 678-655-5051 and or to Base Operations at 678-655-4903. Reporting large flocks of birds near the airfield could help prevent a catastrophic aircraft accident.

Be a part of the BASH Team. Help Wing Safety keep Dobbins aircrew and the local community safe.

 Please contact Wing Safety 678-655-5051 or Airfield Management at 678-655-4905 for more details concerning the BASH program.