The video, “Oryx, Not in a Vacuum.  Drivers Watch Out!” emphasizes the need to maintain situational awareness while driving within White Sands Missile Range (WSMR).  Although Oryx have contributed to numerous accidents on the range, drivers are urged to be alert for a variety of animals and environmental hazards which can be found throughout the range.  Situation awareness is the key to accident avoidance.

Safety Tips for Driving on White Sands Missile Range.

Many destinations on WSMR require extensive travel which can lead to driver complacency and fatigue.  When traveling throughout WSMR follow these basic driving tips:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition.  Most range areas are remote having limited vehicle and personnel traffic.  If your vehicle breaks down, you may find yourself stranded and waiting for hours before assistance arrives.

• Plan.  Plan your route of travel.  Perform risk planning based to the risks which could occur or are expected to be encountered.  Primary range roads should be used as much as possible to avoid extended and unnecessary travel on unimproved roads.  Ensure others are informed on your route of travel and expected arrival, departure, and return time.  Check road block information to preclude travel delays and scheduling conflicts.  If possible, do not deviate from your planned route of travel.

• Follow posted speed limits.   The vehicle speed limit on improved range roads is 55 MPH.  Maximum vehicle speed on unimproved roads is 25 MPH.  During limited visibility or hazardous road conditions vehicle speed should be as necessary to avoid accidents.

• Avoid traveling alone.  WSMR employees are required to use a two-person rule when traveling and performing certain activities outside the cantonment area.  Personnel are urged to use the two-person at all times when traveling up range.

• Establish and maintain radio or telephone communication.  Cell phone coverage on the range is sporadic and limited at best.  Two-way radio provides the best means of communicating in remote locations on the range.

• Avoid fatigue.  Ensure you are well rested prior to driving long distances on the range.  Take rest breaks as needed and switch drivers to maintain alertness and avoid fatigue.

• Stay Alert and Maintain Situational Awareness.  Be alert for changing environmental and road conditions.  Rain may produce flooding or render roads unusable. High winds can effect vehicle control and create dust storms severely restricting visibility.  Wildlife can enter the roadway causing possible vehicle damage and personnel injuries.