Williston Region I Safe Communities Program Highlights For May 2002

For the May Mobilization Blitz, media was coordinated, a script written, and noon shows arranged. A remote media event was provided on May 24, with the coalition invited to attend. Local Law Enforcement was encouraged to write citations to those 18 years old and under for lack of safety belt use. Local Law Enforcement was assisted with distribution of educational materials and incentive items.
Businesses owning vehicles that qualify for the Buckle Up America Award were identified during the safety belt survey. A speech was given to the Noon Lions Club during Buckle Up America week. Information was provided to schools regarding summer safety and travel safety.
Parent task forces throughout the region worked on Operation Graduation (post-graduation parties). Fatal Vision goggles, underage drinking, and drunken driving presentations were given at the high schools with assistance from the Williams County Sheriff. An application for funds from Casual for Charity Days was prepared to help finance the post-graduation party. 87% of the graduating classes from Williston High School and Trinity Christian High School attended the post-graduation party.
Lists were compiled for the next Victim Impact Panel. The coalition added a new law enforcement member and reviewed EMS and Fire Department annual reports to evaluate their contributions to the community injury profile.
The local police department was assisted with a bike rodeo. Media and advertisements were provided, information was sent to local elementary schools, and volunteers were arranged to fit helmets. State Farm Insurance and the Upper Missouri District Health Unit were assisted with coordination for Car Seat Check Ups and Bounty programs. Child safety seats were provided through the Safe Seats program.
Two falls seminars provided by Trinity Health Care were coordinated for senior citizens at the Heritage center and a local retirement village. Do Buckle, Don't Booze incentives were given to the seniors.
During the Williston High School Safety Belt Campaign incentive items were distributed in the parking lot to buckled drivers and passengers. The final survey was completed. Prize drawings and presentations were videotaped and aired on the announcements by the journalism class with SADD students participating in the project.
The Divide County High School Safety Belt Campaign included meetings to finalize the project and review the project and plans for next year. The baseline survey showed 28% of drivers buckled up. The final survey showed 37% of drivers buckled.