Naval Air Station Whidbey Island hosted their annual safety fair at the base’s Fitness Dome, May 14.

NASWI holds the event each year to raise awareness on safe decision making with volunteers, pamphlets and information covering many topics including boating, food, and hunting and fishing safety.

“I think the more and more we preach safety the better off we’ll be as far as mishaps or casualties,” said Fernando Espinoza, NASWI Safety Specialist. “I’m not saying we can prevent them completely but if we can lower the mishaps and casualties we’re doing a plus.”

The Navy teaches safe practices regularly to instill a sense of awareness and caution in their sailors.

“People tend to forget the basic safety things they’re supposed to know,” said Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate Shane Hylton, from Buena Park, California, assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest. “Then they get right into things and get themselves hurt or, even worse, killed.”

NASWI hosts this event to provide as many informative options as possible for members of the base.

“We take every opportunity to try and get out in front of the Sailors and keep them thinking about being prepared,” said Gary Jandzinski, Emergency Management Officer. “We need the Sailors to be part of the solution so they’re not part of the problem.”

Sailors turned out in large numbers and the participants were pleased their message was heard.