At DOT we are constantly looking for new ways to tell people about safe driving practices. Speeches, videos, and blog posts all play their part in relaying our message of safety, but some of the most effective messages come from outside the department -- from the creative imaginations of children.
Yesterday FMCSA, in conjunction with NHTSA and the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Belt Partnership, announced the winners of the 2012 Annual "Be Ready. Be Buckled." poster contest.
The annual contest is open to children in grades K-6 with relatives in the truck and bus industries. It's a great way for the kids to learn about highway safety. It’s also a great opportunity for them to make a big difference by reminding their friends and family members in the commercial driving industry to buckle up--every trip, every time.
In the two categories--kindergarten through second grade and third through sixth grade--we received a number of terrific entries.
Sophia Chen, a second grader from Edison, New Jersey, is the grand prize winner of the younger category for the poster above.
In the older category, fifth grader Richard He from Parsippany, New Jersey, won with his entry below.
These wonderful posters aren't only colorful, fun, and beautifully drawn, but they send a crucial message to Commercial Vehicle Drivers nationwide. And, as FMCSA Administrator Ann Ferro said on Monday, "If a child can’t convince you to do something for your own safety and health, it’s hard to imagine what else will."
Congratulations to Sophia and Richard for their winning posters!
And, please, take these kids' advice: Be safe; be buckled. Every trip, every time.
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