Hands-free devices and seat belts required for Elmendorf motorists Published March 5, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. Gregory Cutchin 3rd Security Forces Squadron ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- There are specific rules in place at Elmendorf Air Force Base and throughout the Department of Defense that prohibit motor vehicle operators from using their cell phones, which includes texting, without the use of a hands-free device as well other rules for using seat belts. Hands-free devices are to provide the operator the freedom to use their cell phone in a safe manner. Using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle impairs the driving ability by preventing the recognition of emergency signals, alarms, announcements and the approach of other vehicles and pedestrians. Drivers of personally owned vehicles or government vehicles must pull over to the side of the road when talking or texting on cell phones. If caught using a cell phone while driving, the person will be subject to an automatic suspension or revocation of installation driving privileges for 30 days. In addition, seatbelts are also designed to keep motorists safe. During a vehicle accident, the safest place to be is inside the vehicle, attached to the vehicle's seat. While there are many safety benefits that come from wearing a seatbelt or using a hands-free device, their use is also the law. All military personnel and civilians operating motor vehicles on Elmendorf will wear safety belts. If caught driving or riding without a safety belt and it's the second offense the person will be cited and will have their driving privileges suspended For more information and specific detail please see 3rd Wing Instruction 31-218 and 3rd Wing Instruction 31-204.