SFS cracks down on speeding, cell phones, littering Published Sept. 28, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. Dean Parrish 4th Security Forces Squadron SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- There have been several questions about policies regarding the enforcement of speeding, cell phone usage and littering. Unfortunately, a lot of questions have been answered while receiving a citation from a 4th Security Forces Squadron patrolman. Hopefully, this article can be a source of clarification. By now, most base personnel have noticed the 15 MPH speed-limit signs installed at the outbound and inbound lanes of all installation gates. The speed limit was lowered due to an increase in vehicle accidents at these locations. In most cases, the determining factors were speed and failure to allow for proper distance between the bollards. There were other safety concerns due to vehicles approaching the gates at unsafe speeds while SecTek Security personnel were checking IDs. The base-wide speed limit remains 30 MPH unless otherwise posted. In order to promote a safer environment for all personnel living and working on base, patrols are stepping up their enforcement of the speed limits at the gates and throughout the installation. Speed-limit violators will be issued a citation and will have points assessed towards their base driving privileges. In addition to speeding, citations are being written for using a cellular phone while operating a motor vehicle on the installation. Use of a cellular phone while operating a motor vehicle is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device. In order to be considered hands-free, the user can not be holding the telephone while driving. Additionally, drivers of government owned or leased vehicles may not use a cell phone on or off the installation. Violators will be cited and three points will be assessed toward their base driving record. Littering is another concern. Many public areas, especially the visitors' center and the gate entrances, are littered with trash and cigarette butts. Our installation entry points are usually where first impressions of the wing are formed. In an effort to give all visitors a professional first impression, security forces personnel will begin issuing citations for littering. Lastly, if individuals feel they were wrongly cited for a moving violation, there is a rebuttal process to voice concerns. They may submit a written statement explaining why the citation should not have been issued and attach any supporting evidence. Active-duty members, federal civilians and their dependents must have a written statement endorsed by their unit commander. Endorsed statements must be submitted to the chief of security forces, through the squadron's reports and analysis section within seven duty days of receipt of the citation. Each rebuttal is reviewed and all efforts are made to ensure proper procedures were followed and laws are enforced with the utmost integrity.