What is a common safety procedure during winter operations on the airfield?

A common safety procedure during winter operations on the airfield is conducting FOD (Foreign Object Damage) checks for snow and ice. This procedure is crucial because snow and ice can obscure runway markings, signs, and other critical information for both pilots and ground personnel. Additionally, the accumulation of snow and ice can create hazards if they are left unattended, which may lead to incidents such as slips, trips, and falls. By performing FOD checks, personnel ensure that the airfield remains clear of potential hazards that could compromise safety during winter operations.

In contrast, increasing vehicle speed is unsafe due to reduced traction on icy or snow-covered surfaces, which can lead to accidents. Driving with headlights off is also considered unsafe, as visibility is critical in challenging weather conditions to both the drivers and others on the airfield. Using radios at all times is important for communication and safety but is not specifically tied to winter conditions, so it does not directly address the unique challenges posed by winter operations. Conducting FOD checks is particularly context-sensitive, making it the appropriate and safest choice during winter airfield operations.