Daily Update: 8 May 2020

  • Published
  • 72nd Air Base Wing

For 8 May, Tinker AFB remains in HPCON Charlie due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On 9 May, upgrades to provide improved access to CHES (Office 365) resources will begin. Maintenance should be transparent to users, however momentary interruptions may occur over the weekend.  During this timeframe, users may experience temporary issues with Outlook and other resources recently migrated to the cloud.

Recently, the Office of Special Counsel also released Hatch Act guidelines for teleworking. This prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activity while on duty or in a federal building. When teleworking, the Hatch Act applies 1) when employees are considered “on duty;” (2) videoconferencing and other virtual communications; and (3) social media. Now, more than ever, people are embracing social media to stay connected to our communities, families, friends, coworkers, and employers. The Hatch Act applies to these social media communications. Employees who use social media are encouraged to review OSC’s social media guidance, found here, to understand what activities are prohibited and permitted.

As we begin to reopen areas around base, remember a few important tips when you’re in an emergency situation. When you call 911, cell phone signals often re-route to Oklahoma City or Midwest City – tell the operator you are on Tinker Air Force Base. Also remember it’s important to be near the patient when you call. If the call happens to be related to COVID-19, be prepared to answer questions regarding symptoms and recent travel.

For non-medical COVID-19 concerns, the Straight Talk Center is available from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. It can be reached at 405-734-2567.

REMINDER: Violations of OPSEC endanger national security! Never discuss mission capabilities or details on social media. Also, please refrain from mentioning names of potentially ill individuals for privacy.