CLASSIFICATION: UNCLASSIFIED ROUTINE R 261821Z MAY 22 MID200001750746U FM SECNAV WASHINGTON DC TO ALNAV INFO SECNAV WASHINGTON DC CNO WASHINGTON DC CMC WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS ALNAV 033/22 MSGID/GENADMIN/SECNAV WASHINGTON DC/-/MAY// SUBJ/101 DAYS OF SUMMER SAFETY MESSAGE// RMKS/1. Each year, the Department of the Navy (DON) designates the time from Memorial Day through Labor Day as the 101 Critical Days of Summer. We do so in order to focus DON personnel on safety; we experience our greatest personnel losses during this 15-week period. As the weather warms, we encourage you to make the most of time with family and friends, but also ask that you do so with a renewed emphasis on staying healthy and preventing injury. Your ability to remain fit for duty ensures that we remain fully mission-capable. Longer days and increased opportunities for outdoor activities provide much - needed breaks for adventures, rest and relaxation that can provide the highlights of our summer. However, these 101 days expose us to more risks that, left unmanaged, can result in illness, injuries or, in extreme cases, death. Sadly, during last year's 101 Critical Days of Summer, the Department lost 26 Sailors and Marines. Over the past decade, motor vehicle, motorcycle, and water-related mishaps have been the main drivers of our summertime fatalities. You are one of the Nation's most precious resources, and we cannot afford to lose you. Simple actions - such as fastening a seatbelt, wearing a motorcycle helmet, using a life preserver, and focusing on the road instead of your phone or other distractions - can and do save lives. Therefore, it is critical that you consider and manage risks as often as possible throughout the summer and during these activities. Additionally, although most of our Nation has returned to pre-pandemic conditions, COVID-19 remains a persistent threat. We must continue to follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of Defense Force Health Protection Guidance. The continued health and safety of you and your family remains our top priority. I trust all of you to remain vigilant and watch out for your fellow Sailors, Marines and your loved ones. Be safe, enjoy your summer and continue to lead by example in the world's greatest naval force. 2. Released by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, Admiral Michael M. Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations, and General David H. Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps. BT #0001 NNNN CLASSIFICATION: UNCLASSIFIED