YELLOWKNIFE (November 20, 2013) – Today is the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims. Transportation Minister Tom Beaulieu says remembering victims of road crashes in the Northwest Territories will help reduce the number of preventable injuries and deaths among our residents, leading to a healthier people.

“Each time someone is seriously injured or killed in a motor vehicle collision, there are lessons we can recall which may have prevented that injury or fatality,” Minister Beaulieu said. “I encourage everyone who has ever had a friend, family member or loved one injured or killed in a collision to honour them by reducing their own risks on our roads and trails.”

The Drive Alive program emphasizes four actions everyone can take to significantly reduce their chances of being a road crash victim:

1. Drive at a speed appropriate for road and weather conditions;
2. Give driving your full attention, and do not drive when your judgment is impaired by alcohol, drugs, distractions or fatigue;
3. Be prepared for the unexpected, with the means to stay warm and hydrated while waiting for help; and
4. Ensure that everyone in your vehicle is wearing a properly fitting seat belt or child restraint.

 

The National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims is marked across Canada. The theme for this year’s remembrance is “Victims and their families and friends are not the only ones impacted by road crashes. Entire communities suffer the loss.” For more information about the events being held to mark the Day, visit http://ccmta.ca/remember_souvenez-vous/home.php.

Drive Alive is the road and trail safety program of the Government of the Northwest Territories, helping deliver on the priority of the 17^th Assembly to ensure a healthier people by investing in prevention, education and awareness. For more information about Drive Alive, go to http://drivealive.ca.

For more information:

Earl Blacklock
Manager of Public Affairs and Communications
Manager responsible for the Drive Alive Program
Tel: (867) 873-7712
Cell: (867) 445-3494
Email: earl_blacklock@gov.nt.ca