November 1, 2010 - The Minister of Transportation, Michael McLeod, gave Members of the Legislative Assembly an update on the Drive Alive travel safety program.

Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise today to give Members an update on the Drive Alive travel safety program.

Drive Alive is a partnership-based initiative that promotes safety on the roads, trails, and waterways of the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, by promoting action that will reduce the number of collisions, serious injuries, and fatalities in the Northwest Territories, we are helping to deliver on the Government’s commitment to Building our Future, as well as this Assembly’s priority to build sustainable, vibrant, and safer communities.

Over the next few weeks Mr. Speaker, we will be unveiling initiatives under Drive Alive to promote pedestrian safety, improve seat belt and child restraint usage, and reduce distracted driving. These are all measures we expect will help reduce avoidable collisions, injuries, and deaths on our highways.

Mr. Speaker, this morning, many of us had the pleasure of witnessing Commissioner George Tuccaro as he was inducted into the Lifesaving Society of Canada as a Vice Patron of the Society. I was also pleased to be joined by my colleagues the Ministers of Health and Social Services and of Municipal and Community Affairs in an announcement committing the Government of Northwest Territories to make the Lifesaving Society’s Water Smart program available in each community across the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, this initiative is expected to help reduce the number of avoidable drowning deaths each year due to boating and recreation.

As winter continues its journey across our land, I am mindful there is a great deal that we can all do to improve travel safety. I will close with some examples:

• Equip your vehicles with snow tires – they grip the road better and provide better traction in snow and ice.
• Drive at a speed appropriate for road conditions. When weather and road conditions are poor, slow down to get to your destination safely.
• Prepare for the unexpected by packing supplies you may need if your vehicle breaks down.
• Let someone know when you expect to arrive at your destination, whether you’re driving or sledding.
• And as this holiday season approaches, be the Life of your Party. Be a Designated Driver.

Mahsi Cho, and safe travel for us all.

For more information, contact:

Press Secretary
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2302