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Protecting Yourself from Sexual Violence

A message from your AFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Committee

Flight Attendants, both male and female, are not immune from the risks of violence, including sexual assaults. Consider the following statistics on rapes and attempted rapes from the Department of Justice:

  • Every two and a half minutes, somewhere in America, someone is sexually assaulted.
  • Most rapists are not a masked or unknown person. Approximately 70% of female victims and 74% of male victims know their assailant (i.e. friend, acquaintance etc.)
  • Only one out of ten rapes involves the use of a weapon.
  • 60% of rapes take place away from the victim’s home and most take place between the hours of 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

Physical force or the threat of physical force is the primary mode of victimization.  This includes the use of drugs that renders the victim physically helpless and usually unable to remember what happened.  These drugs are called “date rape drugs”.  They often have no color, smell or taste and can be easily added to flavored drinks without the victim’s knowledge.  Educate yourself on the use of these drugs and ways in which you can protect yourself, on and off the job.  Below is some information to help you with this.

What are date rape drugs?

These are drugs that are sometimes use in facilitating a sexual assault. Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity that a person does not agree to.  It can include inappropriate touching, sexual intercourse and attempted rape. The effects of these drugs render victims physically helpless, unable to refuse sex, and unable to remember what happened. The drugs often have no color smell or taste and are easily added to flavored drinks without the victim’s knowledge. There are at least three common date rape drugs.  (Although we use the term “date rape,” most experts prefer the term drug facilitated sexual assault.”).

  • GHB (gamma hydroxybutyric acid) is a drug used to treat narcolepsy. The drug can be in many forms including liquid, powder and pill.
  • Rohypnol is a used for sleep disorders and as an anesthetic. It also comes in pill form.
  • Ketamine is a drug used as an anesthetic for humans and mostly for animals. The drug is a white powder.

What effects do these drugs have on the body?

These drugs can affect you quickly.  The length of time that the effects last varies. It depends on how much of the drug is taken and if the drug is mixed with other substances, like alcohol.  Alcohol can expedite and worsen the drug’s effect.  These drugs can cause relaxation, drowsiness, dizziness, unconsciousness, impaired motor function, memory problems, numbness, distorted perception of sight and sound, confusion, vomiting, even coma and death.

How can I protect myself ?

  • Never leave your drink or food unattended, not even with a person whom you think you should be able to trust.
  • Only order beverages that are brought to your table in sealed bottles.
  • If you have a history of black-outs from drinking, you can never predict when one will occur. For your safety, consider ordering only non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Should you find yourself awakening without any memory in a strange environment or situation, proceed immediately to the emergency room to be tested for the presence of a date rape drug and medically evaluated for a sexual assault.
  • If you have a friend who passes out, do not let anyone take the unconscious person to her/his room. Instead, keep the person exactly where they are and insist that medical help be called.

Assistance available to you

Remember, confidential support and assistance is just a phone call away through your AFA EAP.  Call anytime.  AFA Alaska EAP can be reached at (949) 470-0493 or you can find contact information for your Local EAP Committee at http://afaalaska.org/eap.  You can also contact the International AFA EAP Helpline at (800) 424-2406.

[URGENT] ***False Alarm*** re: Ballistic Missile Threat to Hawaiian Islands

The Master Executive Council understands that the entire Hawaiian Island chain was issued a false emergency alert (pushed to all mobile phones) that there was a ballistic missile threat inbound to Hawaii and to seek immediate shelter. The alert falsely indicated that the message was not a drill. However, Alaska Airlines management confirmed that the domestic events network in Hawaii pushed a message that was supposed to go out as a practice drill but was incorrectly send out as a live issue. To the best of AFA’s knowledge, there is no ballistic missile threat to Hawaii at this time.

Please reach out to your AFA resources such as EAP if you need any additional support.

In Solidarity,

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green and Brice McGee

Flight Attendant Alert: Changes to DOT Testing Effective January 1, 2018

This message was created by the International Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Department

Background

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final notice that four commonly prescribed medications will be added to the DOT testing program effective January 1, 2018. These four medications fall under a category of drugs known as opioids. They include:

  • Hydrocodone (example: Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet, Maxidone, Norco, Zydone)
  • Hydromorphone (example: Diluadid, Exalgo, Hydromorph Contin, Palladone)
  • Oxycodone (example: Percocet, Percodan, OxyContin, Roxicodone, Endocet, Xtampza, OxylR)
  • Oxymorphone (example: Opana, Numorphan).

Opioid medications are typically prescribed for the management of pain after injury, surgery, dental procedures and diagnosis of a medical illness with painful symptoms.

Important Regulatory Clarifications

  • Starting January 1, 2018, DOT testing will now for the very first time detect the use of these specific medications.
  • If the testing lab confirms the presence of these medications in a Flight Attendant’s drug test, the Flight Attendant will be contacted by a Medical Review Officer (MRO) to determine if the Flight Attendant has a legally valid prescription within the overall meaning of the Controlled Substance Act (CSA).
  • DOT has made it clear that it will not issue guidance to the MROs on how long a prescription may be considered valid for the purpose of providing a legitimate medical explanation for a laboratory positive. Specifically, DOT states “it would not be appropriate for the Department to substitute its judgment for that of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which is the Federal agency with the authority to determine what constitutes a valid prescription under the CSA. The DEA has not set a maximum duration for the length of time a prescription can be considered to be legally used by the person to whom it was prescribed…. Consequently, DOT will not create a time limit on the use of a legally valid prescription. Instead, MROs will make individualized determinations for each donor.”
  • Regardless of whether medical marijuana is prescribed by a physician, it cannot be the basis of a legitimate medical explanation. It will be verified by the MRO as a test positive.
  • When verifying the prescription an employee provides to the MRO, the DOT is now recommending “MROs should speak with the pharmacy and not simply rely on a photograph of the prescription label”.
  • If an MRO has concerns about an employee’s ability to safely perform her/his duties while taking a prescription, a new process has been put in place by DOT to ensure that “an employee is not caught off guard by the MRO’s decision to report the medical information regarding a legally valid prescription to a third party”. Effective January 1, 2018, the MRO must give the employee five (5) business days to have her/his prescribing physician contact the MRO to determine if the medication(s) can be changed to one that does not make the employee medically unqualified or that does not pose a significant safety risk before reporting the safety concern to a third party. If the MRO does not receive such information from the prescribing physician, the MRO would then report to third parties. Previously, the MRO would report to the third party and then engage with the prescribing health care provider.

Resources to Help You Balance Safety and Medication

There are a number of resources under the Flight Attendant Drug and Alcohol (FADAP) Website (www.FADAP.org) to help you balance safety and the use of prescription medications including the 4 new medications for which DOT will test effective January 1, 2018.

Medication Safety Film for Flight Attendants: View this short film to understand the safety issues and best practices around medication use by Flight Attendants. ->

Medication and flying article “What Medications Can I Take While Flying?” Read this three-page article to get a more rounded understanding of the issues surrounding medication use by Flight Attendants and best practices. ->

“Flight Attendant Essential Job Functions” wallet card: There is no list of DOT banned prescriptions for flight attendants, other than prescription marijuana. The decision of which medications you can take and safely perform your Flight Attendant duties is generally determined by your health care provider (including dosage, frequency and timing of use in relation to your work schedule).

To help you inform your provider of your safety sensitive duties, provide your health care provider with your job description for incorporation into your medical file. ->

You can also download wallet size lists of Flight Attendants’ essential job functions for your provider’s quick reference each and every time a medication is discussed. ->

Health Care Provider’s Medication Note: Should your health care provider prescribe a medication containing an opioid or amphetamine (both of which are detectable under DOT testing) have your provider sign this note for your submission just in case you are challenged about the safe use of the medication. ->

* * *

Have more questions? Contact AFA International EAP at 800-424-2406.

In Solidarity,

Your AFA EAP

Managing Your Distress In The Aftermath of a Shooting

A message from your AFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

You may be struggling to understand how a shooting could occur and why such a terrible thing would happen. There may never be satisfactory answers to these questions.

We do know, though, that most people will experience a variety of emotions following such a traumatic event. These feelings can include shock, sorrow, numbness, fear, anger, disillusionment, grief and others. You may find that you have trouble sleeping, concentrating, eating or remembering even simple tasks. This is common and should pass after a while. Over time, the caring support of family and friends can help to lessen the emotional impact and ultimately make the changes brought about by the tragedy more manageable. You may feel that the world is a more dangerous place today than you did yesterday. It will take some time to recover your sense of equilibrium. Meanwhile, you may wonder how to go on living your daily life. You can strengthen your resilience — the ability to adapt well in the face of adversity — in the days and weeks ahead.

Here are some tips:

Talk about it

Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen to your concerns. Remember, your AFA EAP is available for confidential assistance.  Visit http://afaalaska.org/eap or call (800) 424-2406 for your local committee members.

Strive for balance

When a tragedy occurs, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and have a negative or pessimistic outlook. Balance that viewpoint by reminding yourself of people and events which are meaningful and comforting, even encouraging.

Turn it off and take a break

You may want to keep informed, but try to limit the amount of news you take in whether it’s from the Internet, television, newspapers or magazines. While getting the news informs you, being overexposed to it can actually increase your stress.

Honor your feelings

Remember that it is common to have a range of emotions after a traumatic incident.

Take care of yourself

Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress.

If you have recently lost friends or family in this or other tragedies

Remember that grief is a long process. Give yourself time to experience your feelings. It is important to get professional help if you feel like you are unable to function or perform basic activities of daily living.  Your AFA EAP can help you with a referral.

 

This tip sheet was made possible by the American Psychological Association. 

A September 11th Anniversary Message From Your AFA EAP

 

We know that the anniversaries of significant events in people’s lives can sometimes trigger reactions.  September 11, 2017 will be no different.  Some of us may harness our responses by participating in commemorative activities and memorials.    For others, September 11th will be marked by private reflections and personal tributes like a moment of silence or picking up a trip on the 11th.  For others, September 11th will serve as a reminder that September is National Preparedness Month.  Many will channel their responses into creating or updating family disaster communication/preparedness plans.

How ever you choose to structure your day this September 11th or how ever it just naturally unfolds, please remember that your AFA EAP committee representatives welcome being a part of it.  If you or a flying partner needs a confidential ear, please call us at:

Pre-Merger Alaska

(949) 470-0493 or find your local EAP representatives’ contact information at afaalaska.org/eap

Pre-Merger Virgin America

(800) 424-2406

Remember, we’re just a phone call away.

Strategies for Dealing With The Anniversary of September 11th

Anniversaries of tragedies can be difficult times for many people.  For some, the anniversary of 9/11 continues to be a powerful reminder of loss.  For others, who thought they had put the tragedy behind them, the anniversary may produce unexpected anxiety or grief.

The anniversary and the media replay of that day’s destruction may stir strong emotions and difficult memories in many of us.  But there are ways to cope:

  • Observe the anniversary in a way that’s comfortable for you. Being with other people, getting involved in memorial activities and talking about the tragedy are all important coping strategies, but taking time to be by yourself – to think and reflect – can be helpful and healing as well.
  • Limit television as much as possible. The visual images can prompt especially strong reactions.  Instead, be prepared to turn to a movie channel, read a book, or go to Blockbusters.
  • If you start to feel overwhelmed, talk with a friend, family member, or your AFA EAP. Often, talking about your fears and feelings is enough to relieve stress and realize that other people share your feelings.  Taking action is a sign of strength and self-awareness.
  • Recall other times you’ve experienced strong emotions. Identify which coping strategies have worked for you in the past, and use them.
  • Don’t compare yourself to how others around you appear to be dealing with the September 11 anniversary. Everyone experiences and copes with stress differently.  Try not to judge people’s emotions by their outsides.
  • If you have children, encourage them to discuss their concerns and feelings with you.
  • If you have strong feelings that haven’t or won’t go away, seeking help from a professional may prove useful. Your AFA EAP can provide you with referrals.
  • Share this information with a flying partner who may be struggling with the upcoming anniversary.

Modified from information from the National Mental Health Association

MEC Officer Election Results

With the current Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers’ term ending on December 31, 2025, our MEC held elections this week for the next term. According to the AFA-CWA Constitution and Bylaws, each of the eight Local Executive Council (LEC) Presidents casts one vote for each officer position. The following AFA Flight Attendants have been elected […]

Sick Leave Survey Deadline Extended

Our JNC has received reports that some Flight Attendants may not have received the Sick Leave Survey email due to technical issues. Please check your spam or junk folder. The survey deadline has been extended to Friday, November 21, at Noon PT, allowing everyone to participate.

Sick Leave Survey Closing Soon

There’s just 1 DAY LEFT to complete the Sick Leave Survey that will help shape future provisions. Our JNC is eager to hear your thoughts on which elements of our paid sick leave policy are most meaningful to you, as we strive to improve our support for your needs. The survey is currently open and will remain available until Tuesday, November 11 at Noon PT.

Council 30 (ANC) LEC Officer Election Results

Polls closed at 12 PM PT today for the election of Council 30 LEC Officers, representing Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants based in Anchorage. The following AFA Flight Attendants have been elected to Local Council Officer positions: LEC President: LeiLauni ScheidemanLEC Vice President: Heather ReierLEC Secretary: Anne Madsen View the certified election results here >> These newly elected officers […]

Apps To Help You Save Money On Food

Our AFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee recognizes that Flight Attendants may be facing increasing challenges when it comes to accessing affordable food, whether on the road or at home. We want you to know that you are not alone. In response to these difficulties, we have compiled a list of apps to help […]

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