Safety Matters - June 2008

The Vernonia Police Department participated in the 3-Flags Safety Enforcement Campaign from May 19th to June 3rd. During the campaign officers increased their vigilance in watching for safety belt violations, child safety seat violations, DUII's, and general traffic safety issues. The overtime hours were paid for by ODOT grant funds. Statewide crash fatalities and injury rates gave dropped 43% since the passage of the adult seatbelt law in 1990. Combined with active enforcement the seatbelt use rate has climbed to 95% (front seat) and 97% (all seating) which puts Oregon in the top five in seatbelt use in the United States. Oregon is #3 behind Hawaii (97%) and Washington (96%). The national average is 82%. Vernonia belt use is around 94% to 96% on average. The focus of this years safety campaign is: 1) extension of belt laws to occupants of commercial vehicles "designed or used" to transport property, and 2) booster use for children over 40 pounds but under age 8yrs or less than 4'9" tall. ODOT has sent out a very helpful poster to determine what type of restraint or booster should be used with children depending on height, weight, and age. I have placed this poster on the wall by the front door of the police department. For more information or assistance with selection and installation of child restraints and boosters you can call the Safety Seat Resource Center at 503-643-5620 or 1-800-722-1315 or visit <www.childsafetyseat.org>.