Dropped call: cell phone use without hands-free device prohibited Published May 24, 2007 By Master Sgt. Barry Alcorn 82nd Security Forces Squadron SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Improper use of a cellular phone while driving is unsafe. Many accidents can be attributed to personnel being inattentive while driving. Not to say that this is the only reason, but it is a factor. Air Education and Training Command policy outlined in AFI 31-218, Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, prohibits cell phone usage while driving on-base unless using a hands-free device or with the vehicle safely parked. Security forces patrols are enforcing this policy and are citing personnel for cell phone usage while driving without using a hands-free device. The safety of personnel on Air Force installations is paramount. This policy is another contributor to ensure personnel's transit between work and home is safe and without incident. Please take notice next time you are in your vehicle and the phone rings, or you feel the urge to call someone without adhering to established procedures. Think about the time it takes you to be distracted while dialing that number or trying to find the right button to push to answer the phone, and ask yourself, was it worth it?