Loud music: Penalties get worse Published Sept. 15, 2006 By Senior Airman Cassandra Locke Editor POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Next time someone decides to blast their car stereo, keep in mind that base leadership is viewing this as a problem, and steps are being taken to ensure it does not remain a problem. Currently when a driver is pulled over by the 43rd Security Forces Squadron staff for loud music a verbal warning is given, but leadership is working on a policy to strengthen the punishment. Leadership is discussing a possible punishment of taking away driving privileges for blasting music in vehicles. "Driving is a privilege on Pope," said Lt. Col. Robert Dutterer, 43rd Security Forces Squadron commander. "Pope is a gated community, and people need to abide by the rules set in place." The rule of thumb is not to have your music so loud that it's heard from 10 feet away. "It's very inconsiderate to assume that other people want to hear your music," said Chief Master Sgt. Herb Hanson, 43rd Airlift Wing command chief. "If I'm sitting in my office with my window open and can hear loud music from more than 50 feet away then there's a problem," said the chief. The chief also referenced a time recently when he was having a conversation with Col. John McDonald, 43rd Airlift Wing vice commander, and someone drove by with their music and bass so loud, they could not hear each other talk while standing right next to each other. Every single person driving on Pope, regardless of rank or military affiliation, needs to comply with the base's noise policy not only for consideration purposes, but safety also needs to be remembered. When people blast their music, they can potentially fail to hear an emergency vehicle and fail to pay attention when driving. Not only are loud car stereos the culprit for noise pollution, backyard barbecues and parties contribute as well. According to Colonel Dutterer, the quiet hours in the dormitories are 24/7 due to shift workers. Also, family housing has a good neighbor policy, which is to be considerate at all times. "Again, this is about safety and consideration," said the colonel. To report loud music, call the 43rd SFS at 394-2800.