American Trucking Associations (ATA) and America’s Road Team, a national public outreach program, are encouraging drivers to react to emergency responders while on the road.
The top cause of death for police officers and firefighters is traffic accidents and vehicle-related incidents, accounting for almost 13 percent of emergency responders’ deaths in the line of duty.
“Because safety on the roads is our industry’s chief concern, it is clear that efforts like Traffic Incident Response Week are aligned with our priorities and amplify the work of America’s Road Team,” ATA President and CEO Chris Spear said. “Emergency responders put themselves at risk every day in order to save lives, prevent injury, and enforce our nation’s laws. Trucking could not be more supportive of their mission.”
Nov. 13-19 is the second annual Traffic Incident Response Week. The event is designed to educate the public on the dangers faced by first responders and civilians during emergency response scenarios.
First responders also are using the opportunity to encourage the public to prepare for inclement weather during the holiday travel season.
Drivers are encouraged to inspect vehicles before driving and to keep blankets, flashlights, food, tools and water in their vehicles in case of emergency.