Posted: November 18th, 2010 11:04 AM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2010-11/1002/40013/ThanksgivCluck.jpeg
With the holidays upon us, thousands of Oregonians will take to the roads to spend time with family and friends. Oregon State Police (OSP) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) remind travelers to be prepared for winter road conditions, buckle up and drive alert so everyone can arrive safely at their destinations. Police officers throughout Oregon and around the country will be busy sending the message to "Click It or Ticket" to save lives and prevent injuries on our roads.
"No one wants to start the holidays off down the wrong road by causing a collision or getting a ticket," said Captain Mike Dingeman, director of the OSP Patrol Services Division. "Save a life and save your money. Drive carefully, alert and sober, and buckle up every time on the road, day or night."
The longest holiday period of the year, the Thanksgiving holiday period covers 102 hours starting Wednesday, November 24, at 6:00 p.m., and running through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, November 28. Oregon is joining traffic enforcement efforts nationwide to reduce crashes, injuries and deaths on Oregon roads during the holiday period's special "Click It or Ticket" enforcement mobilization.
Some of the special enforcement efforts planned during the holiday period include:
* OSP, Malheur County Sheriff's Office, Idaho State Police, and Nevada Highway Patrol will target major routes, including Highway 95 between Interstate 84 and Interstate 80, on November 26 and 27 for expected increased traffic traveling to and from the Friday night Boise State / Nevada football game. (Media contacts listed at end of this news release)
* OSP troopers from the Coos Bay Area Command office will focus enforcement efforts on Highway 38 and Highway 42 for increased traffic traveling to and from the southern Oregon coast.
* OSP, Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, and the Klamath County DUII Task Force will be participating in a multi-agency DUII enforcement effort on Friday and Saturday nights.
During last year's Thanksgiving holiday period in Oregon, two people died in two separate traffic crashes. Since 1970, over 230 people have died on Oregon roads during this holiday period.
"Sadly, the holidays, which for many are the happiest time of the year, is also one of the deadliest and tragic," said Dingeman.
The 2008 Thanksgiving holiday was no different around the country as 1,120 passenger vehicle occupants were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics show that more than half of those killed were not wearing safety belts at the time of the crash. According to ODOT, over half of Oregon's motor vehicle occupant fatalities were also not using safety belts at the time of their crashes.
While seat belt use is at a record high of 83 percent nationally and 97 percent in Oregon, millions of people nationwide still fail to buckle up when they get in a motor vehicle despite laws requiring belt use in forty-nine states. Oregon continues to be in the top three states nationally for highest rates of safety restraint usage and for child seat use for children under age four, but booster seat use among four to eight year olds is a paltry 62 percent.
"Parents seem unconvinced of the benefits of booster use over adult safety belts for young children," said Carla Levinski, ODOT's Occupant Protection Program Manager. She offered the following tests for determining if a child is ready to use an adult safety belt system instead of a booster:
* Can the child sit on the vehicle seat so his/her whole back is touching the seatback?
* Do the child's knees bend comfortably at the edge of the seat?
* Does the belt cross the shoulder between the neck and arm?
* Is the lap belt touching the tops of the legs?
* Can the child sit like this for the whole trip?
Levinski reminds adults that Oregon law requires seat belts to be used properly, meaning wearing both lap and shoulder belts as intended. "Even though your Thanksgiving dinner may tempt you to do otherwise, remember that an unbelted occupant surviving ejection during a crash is only one in four," she said.
OSP, Oregon State Sheriff's Association, Oregon Association Chiefs of Police, and ODOT remind travelers to use TripCheck.com (or call 5-1-1) for the latest road conditions, paying close attention to your travel routes while keeping up on unexpected weather / road conditions, and follow these important safety tips:
Getting Ready for the Trip
* Plan ahead to give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination.
* Stay informed about weather conditions, potential traffic hazards and highway closures.
* Check road conditions by visiting www.TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1
* Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving starting with good tires, a good battery, and a full tank of gas.
* Carry an emergency kit and chains or traction tires, especially if traveling over mountain passes.
* Snacks and bottled water also are a good idea for long trips, especially with children.
* Carry a map in case weather or road conditions force you to take a detour. Keep family members or friends aware of any significant changes in your planned route before you take the unplanned route.
* Get plenty of rest before you leave on any trip.
* Clear snow, ice or frost from windows and headlights before you leave.
* Make sure everyone is using safety restraints and secure any cargo.
* Always have a designated driver for any holiday activities that include alcohol.
On the Road:
* Drive according to conditions. If it's wet, icy, snowy or foggy, slow down and increase your following distance behind other vehicles to at least a four-second distance. Keep in mind that conditions may not be perfect to drive at the posted speed.
* Use headlights even in daylight to help other drivers see you.
* Don't use cruise control in wet, icy, snowy or foggy conditions.
* Be patient with all the other traffic on the highways.
* Watch out for pedestrians now that the days are shorter and darker, and remember they're often in dark clothing.
* If you get tired or drowsy, stop and rest during your trip or get a rested and sober licensed driver behind the wheel.
* There are still many construction zones on our highways, and even though work will be inactive over the holiday weekend there may be equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway. Stay alert and slow down because all work zone speed limits still apply and fines increase in these areas.
* Don't drink and drive or get into a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking.
Report any possible intoxicated driver or dangerous driver to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.
Note to Media: Questions regarding local OSP patrol efforts and ride-along requests should be directed to your local OSP office.
More information, including links to Spanish versions of NHTSA's marketing materials, is available at:
http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/planners/Thanksgiving2010/index.htm
Winter travel safety information and links on ODOT's TripCheck.com and at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/10_25_2010_winter_driving_tips.shtml
Media contacts regarding the Highway 95 interagency patrol efforts mentioned above:
Oregon State Police - Sergeant Jason Reese (541-889-6469)
Idaho State Police - Sergeant Scott Dye (208-860-6286)
Nevada Highway Patrol - Trooper Chuck Allen (775-689-4680)
Malheur County Sheriff's Office - Sergeant Rich Harriman (541-473-5126)
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195
Shelley Snow
ODOT Public Affairs
Office: (503) 986-3438
Showing posts with label holiday traveling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holiday traveling. Show all posts
Monday, November 22, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
REMEMBER TO DRIVE SAFE, SOBER AND BUCKLED UP THIS MEMORIAL HOLIDAY WEEKEND
News Release from: Oregon State Police
Posted: May 24th, 2010 12:28 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2010-05/1002/35474/2010.MemorialHoliday.remind.jpg
Focusing ahead at the challenges faced during what historically has the highest percentage of alcohol-involved traffic fatalities of all major holidays during the year, police agencies throughout Oregon urge all travelers to drive safe and sober, and buckle up this Memorial Day holiday extended weekend.
Starting Friday, May 28 through Monday, May 31, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers will join law enforcement agencies in Oregon and around the country stepping up enforcement efforts during Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). This special nationwide program coincides with the national "Click It or Ticket" campaign, May 24 – June 6.
ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) reports that five people died in four separate fatal traffic crashes during the 2009 Memorial Day holiday period, May 22 – 25. More than 250 people have died in Oregon traffic crashes during the last 40 years over the Memorial Day holiday period. Since 1985, approximately 54 percent of the fatalities were in alcohol-involved crashes.
OSP Superintendent Timothy McLain urges everyone traveling this holiday weekend, whether long distance or on short drives near home, to support the enforcement efforts and safety restraint mobilization.
"Be prepared for the stepped up enforcement activities by buckling yourself and your child passengers before you go. Have a rested, sober driving at all times and report those whose driving is posing a danger to others on our roads," said McLain.
During the last three years' Memorial Day holiday weekends, OSP troopers arrested more than 250 people for DUII, including 88 DUII drivers arrested during last year's 102-hour holiday period. Troopers also responded to about 100 reported traffic crashes, assisted over 500 disabled motorists, and made over 6,000 traffic-related enforcement contacts.
According to ODOT's Occupant Protection Program, lack of safety belt use was a major factor in half of all Oregon motor vehicle occupant deaths last year. Alarmingly, one in three children under age 8 killed or injured in crashes were using adult belt systems or were totally unrestrained rather than riding in child seats appropriate for their size.
Nationally, nearly two-thirds (64%) of those who died in 2008 traffic crashes between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. were not searing their safety belts. During daytime hours between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. less than half (45%) of the passenger vehicles occupants killed in crashes were unrestrained.
"Nighttime drivers and passengers continue to be among those least likely to wear seat belts. Consequently, they are also among those most likely to die in motor vehicle crashes. Even though it may be dark doesn't mean we can't see someone unbuckled in a vehicle, so we will join other Oregon law enforcement agencies supporting the enhanced enforcement of safety restraint laws during the Click It or Ticket campaign," said McLain.
More information about the "Click It or Ticket" campaign is available on ODOT's website at www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TS/safetybelts.shtml and at www.nhtsa.gov.
Oregon State Police and Oregon Department of Transportation offer the following safety reminders for holiday travel:
* Get plenty of rest before starting out. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
* Be aware that ODOT is in the midst of the busiest highway construction season ever. Stay up to date on road conditions by visiting TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1.
* Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
* Always use safety restraints and child safety seats correctly.
* Don't drink and drive.
* MOVE OVER if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated.
Everyone plays an important part in keeping our highways and city streets safe. Immediately report aggressive, dangerous, and intoxicated drivers to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195
Shelley Snow
ODOT Public Affairs
Office: (503) 986-3438
Posted: May 24th, 2010 12:28 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2010-05/1002/35474/2010.MemorialHoliday.remind.jpg
Focusing ahead at the challenges faced during what historically has the highest percentage of alcohol-involved traffic fatalities of all major holidays during the year, police agencies throughout Oregon urge all travelers to drive safe and sober, and buckle up this Memorial Day holiday extended weekend.
Starting Friday, May 28 through Monday, May 31, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers will join law enforcement agencies in Oregon and around the country stepping up enforcement efforts during Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). This special nationwide program coincides with the national "Click It or Ticket" campaign, May 24 – June 6.
ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) reports that five people died in four separate fatal traffic crashes during the 2009 Memorial Day holiday period, May 22 – 25. More than 250 people have died in Oregon traffic crashes during the last 40 years over the Memorial Day holiday period. Since 1985, approximately 54 percent of the fatalities were in alcohol-involved crashes.
OSP Superintendent Timothy McLain urges everyone traveling this holiday weekend, whether long distance or on short drives near home, to support the enforcement efforts and safety restraint mobilization.
"Be prepared for the stepped up enforcement activities by buckling yourself and your child passengers before you go. Have a rested, sober driving at all times and report those whose driving is posing a danger to others on our roads," said McLain.
During the last three years' Memorial Day holiday weekends, OSP troopers arrested more than 250 people for DUII, including 88 DUII drivers arrested during last year's 102-hour holiday period. Troopers also responded to about 100 reported traffic crashes, assisted over 500 disabled motorists, and made over 6,000 traffic-related enforcement contacts.
According to ODOT's Occupant Protection Program, lack of safety belt use was a major factor in half of all Oregon motor vehicle occupant deaths last year. Alarmingly, one in three children under age 8 killed or injured in crashes were using adult belt systems or were totally unrestrained rather than riding in child seats appropriate for their size.
Nationally, nearly two-thirds (64%) of those who died in 2008 traffic crashes between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. were not searing their safety belts. During daytime hours between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. less than half (45%) of the passenger vehicles occupants killed in crashes were unrestrained.
"Nighttime drivers and passengers continue to be among those least likely to wear seat belts. Consequently, they are also among those most likely to die in motor vehicle crashes. Even though it may be dark doesn't mean we can't see someone unbuckled in a vehicle, so we will join other Oregon law enforcement agencies supporting the enhanced enforcement of safety restraint laws during the Click It or Ticket campaign," said McLain.
More information about the "Click It or Ticket" campaign is available on ODOT's website at www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TS/safetybelts.shtml and at www.nhtsa.gov.
Oregon State Police and Oregon Department of Transportation offer the following safety reminders for holiday travel:
* Get plenty of rest before starting out. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
* Be aware that ODOT is in the midst of the busiest highway construction season ever. Stay up to date on road conditions by visiting TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1.
* Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
* Always use safety restraints and child safety seats correctly.
* Don't drink and drive.
* MOVE OVER if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated.
Everyone plays an important part in keeping our highways and city streets safe. Immediately report aggressive, dangerous, and intoxicated drivers to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195
Shelley Snow
ODOT Public Affairs
Office: (503) 986-3438
Monday, November 30, 2009
HURRICANE SEASON OFFICIALLY ENDS – ADMINISTRATOR FUGATE URGES VIGILANCE
WASHINGTON – Today, November 30, 2009, marks the official end of the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season and with that, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate reminds citizens to remain vigilant and stay prepared. Disasters are not limited to hurricanes or a specific time of year – they can occur anytime, anywhere.
“I can never remind people enough to stay prepared for potential disasters. We must never let our guard down. I am thankful for a quieter than usual hurricane season, but the fact remains disasters may occur at any time and without warning, said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As we head into the winter season, we must all remain vigilant and remember to take the time to prepare ourselves and our families. Assemble a kit, have a family disaster plan and stay informed during disasters.”
Winter weather, increased holiday traveling, and holiday fire safety are opportunities to focus on personal preparedness. Gather a preparedness kit including a 3-day supply of food and water, blankets, and first-aid kit for both your home and car. Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Finally, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
“I can never remind people enough to stay prepared for potential disasters. We must never let our guard down. I am thankful for a quieter than usual hurricane season, but the fact remains disasters may occur at any time and without warning, said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As we head into the winter season, we must all remain vigilant and remember to take the time to prepare ourselves and our families. Assemble a kit, have a family disaster plan and stay informed during disasters.”
Winter weather, increased holiday traveling, and holiday fire safety are opportunities to focus on personal preparedness. Gather a preparedness kit including a 3-day supply of food and water, blankets, and first-aid kit for both your home and car. Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Finally, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
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