7th SFS rolls through base housing this summer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shannon Hall
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  If you happen to drive through base housing or be sitting on your porch enjoying a cold beverage and notice police riding around on bikes, they aren't just out for a leisurely stroll. Bike patrol season is upon us.

Although it typically runs through the summer months, from Memorial to Labor Day, this year the 7th Security Forces Squadron began its bike routes a little later due to manning and deployment requirements.

"Patrolling on bicycles offers a more visible, constant and approachable presence to residents," said Maj. Sarah Babbitt, 7th SFS commander. "Bicycles can go places in housing that are restricted to vehicle traffic, so the area of surveillance is broader."

Some housing residents are grateful for the extra security during the summer.

"I think it's a great idea because there are a lot of kids outside in the summer and not everyone follows speed limits and other guidelines," said Allysa Mikaele, Dyess housing resident.

The patrols have added benefits outside of resident safety by helping the Airmen stay mentally and physically fit.

"This is my first time on bike patrol and I really enjoy it," said Senior Airman Enrique Martinez, 7th SFS team lead. "Riding the bikes is a great stress reliever and helps us to stay fit so that we can accomplish the Dyess mission."

The patrols will be 24/7 with Airmen working 12-hour shifts. They are required to spend six hours on their bikes and six hours in a patrol car.

"During inclement weather or when our defenders need rest, they'll secure their bicycles at the Dyess Youth Center and patrol in a security forces vehicle," Babbitt said.

Patrolmen are trained to respond to accidents, security incidents, traffic or law-enforcement situations, natural disasters and medical emergencies. Bike patrolmen are prepared for the same hazards other officers encounter and additional dangers specific to being on a bike.

"Every morning our patrols attend a guardmount where they are inspected on appearance and briefed," said 1st Lt. Jeffrey Canfield, 7th SFS operations officer. "The briefing includes updated information on weather, weapons, vehicle and ground safety, potential threats and other relevant law enforcement information."

Once the briefing is completed, the Airmen go through a gear check to ensure they have all required safety equipment, equipment is operational and bikes function properly.

Ensuring Airmen stay safe while on patrol is just another factor of being able to efficiently keep base housing protected.

"I can tell you that historically, the Dyess bike patrol has significantly reduced criminal activity and general mischief in base housing," Babbitt said. "It's a wonderful community-policing initiative that is truly a win-win for security forces personnel and Dyess residents."