101 Critical Days of Summer begins Published May 22, 2007 By Sheila Rupp Nucleus Journalist KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- With rising temperatures and the sunny skies of summer, outdoor sports, recreation and travel emerge as part of the plans for the season. With these activities, the number of fatalities typically increases May 25 through Sept. 4, which is commonly referred to as the "101 Critical Days of Summer." The 101 Critical Days of Summer is an Air Force-wide campaign that began in the early 1980s in an effort to counter the traditional increase in Air Force mishaps and fatalities that occur during the summer months. Campaign efforts attempt to increase personal awareness of risk, thereby reducing the number of summer mishaps and fatalities. Briefings on the 101 Critical Days of Summer will be held May 23 at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the base theater and are mandatory for military personnel and highly encouraged for civilian personnel. Each installation targets their efforts based upon their local hazards and needs. The presentations here will cover safety about outdoor activities, gang activities and the effects of methamphetamine labs on unsuspecting neighbors and property owners. During last year's campaign, the Air Force experienced 18 fatalities, compared with 29 during the 2005 campaign.