Common base driving violations Published Dec. 21, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Roger Butler 5th Security Forces Squadron MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- To ensure the safety and welfare of base personnel and visitors this winter, the 5th Security Forces Squadron reminds everyone to drive safely, follow all traffic rules and report violators. The following rules are some base traffic regulations, which are often violated and come from base supplement to AFI 31-204, Air Force Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision. Vehicle operators and operators of government-owned vehicles on and off base shall not use cell phones unless the vehicle is safely parked or unless they are using a hands-free device. Prohibited use includes, but is not limited to, texting, checking voicemail, gaming or scrolling through music lists. In addition, the wearing of any other portable headphones, earphones or other listening devices, except for hands-free cellular phones, while operating a motor vehicle is prohibited. Passengers in vehicles operated by individuals who are cited for reckless driving and/or arrested/apprehended for intoxicated driving may have their driving privileges revoked/suspended up to one year, regardless of geographic location of the offense. No person may consume an alcoholic beverage in any motor vehicle on base. Any bottle or receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage which has been opened, the seal broken or the contents of which have been partially removed, must be transported in the trunk of the motor vehicle. If the motor vehicle is not equipped with a trunk, the container must be stored in an area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers. A utility or glove compartment is considered a violation in this case. Parking on any base street while the road is narrowed by snow is prohibited. For example, a vehicle cannot be parked within 12 inches of the curb due to snow. Vehicles illegally parked on a street obstructing snow removal operation will be cited and may be towed to the impoundment lot at the owner's expense. Unit commanders or designees will ensure vehicles are moved from squadron parking areas under their control during snow removal operations. Those who are departing for a TDY or leave are encouraged to use the temporary storage lot next to the Pride building. First sergeants should be contacted for procedures on how to park there. If they do not, they must leave a key for their vehicle with a responsible representative, such as a first sergeant or commander, so their vehicle can be moved as needed. Vehicle operators will maintain a safe stopping distance, considering speed limits, road conditions and weather, while following other vehicles. Do not pass snowplows actively engaged in snow removal operations. Keep windows clear of ice, fog or snow while in motion. If you witness a traffic violation or reckless/dangerous driving on or off base, call the 5th Security Forces Squadron law enforcement desk at 723-3096 with the location and a vehicle/driver description so security forces can coordinate immediate response and/or notify member's unit of his/her dangerous driving habits. If you have any questions on any base traffic rules, please contact 5th SFS police services at 723-4434.