Base enforces cell phone hands-free policy

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. James Wilkinson
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The 436th Security Forces Squadron is enforcing the Department of Defense cellular phone use policy. 

In February, DoD installations began enforcing new cell phone restrictions for drivers on military bases as a response to new information published in the Federal Register. 

People now have to purchase hands-free sets to continue using cell-phones while driving on base,.said Craig W. Gilbert, 436th SFS Reports and Analysis. 

The Air Force incorporated the information into Air Force Instruction 31-218(I) Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, which states, “Vehicle operators on a DoD installation and operators of government-owned vehicles will not use cell phones unless the vehicle is safely parked or unless they are using a hands-free device.” 

The instruction further states that the wearing of headphones, earphones or other listening devices – with the exception of hands-free cellular phones – is prohibited because devices impair recognition of emergency signals. 

“Air Force leadership considers cell phone use while driving a distraction with negative impact on safety,” said Mr. Gilbert. “Hands-free cell phone use should lead to more attentive driving and a reduction in vehicle accidents and mishaps. (One) advantage would be a reduction in mission impairment, property damage and personal injury.”
Security Forces personnel are citing violators as a primary offense. 

“If cited for this offense, three traffic points will be added to the violator’s base driving record,” said Tech. Sgt. Edward Strouse, 436th SFS Plans and Programs Office.
Repeat offenders will accumulate an additional three points for each citation. If drivers exceed 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months, they will be issued a six-month driving suspension on base. 

436th Security Forces Operations plans to educate base personnel about the new policy via base publications and notifications placed on computer login screens at their workplaces. 

Mr. Gilbert also informed there are several higher-level safety initiatives currently being looked at to abolish all cell phone use on base. There are currently no laws in Delaware prohibiting cell phone use while driving. Any further questions about the new cellular phone use policy can be directed to the 436th SFO at 677-6087 or 677-6082.