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National Teen Driver Safety Week

October 21 – 27 is National Teen Driver Safety Week (NTDSW). After several tragic car crashes involving Pennsylvania high school students, Congressman Charlie Dent (R- PA), Senator Bob Casey (D- PA), and more than 50 co-sponsors introduced the resolution creating NTDSW in October 2007. This observance now takes place annually during the third full week in October.

This week emphasizes the importance of following the rules of the road, and addressing the greatest dangers for teen drivers: alcohol, inconsistent or no seatbelt use, distracted and drowsy driving, speeding, and number of passengers. As motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death for teens (15 to 18 years old) in the United States, the statistics are sobering.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2016 there were 2,082 teen drivers involved in fatal motor vehicle traffic crashes, resulting in 2,288 fatalities. Contributing factors to these fatalities included:

• Unrestrained (no seat belt): 58%
• Speeding: 31%
• Drinking: 20%
• Distracted driving: 10%

West Bend is committed to helping teenagers develop the knowledge, skills, and responsibility needed to operate a motor vehicle safely. We proudly sponsor Road America’s Teen Driving School. This program goes beyond typical drivers’ education by putting participants in common emergency situations while in a safe, controlled, off-street environment. Participants practice collision avoidance techniques that include emergency lane changes, braking, skid control, and a variety of other fundamental car control drills.

Protect your kids from tip-over accidents

Parents of babies, toddlers, and even preschoolers take many precautions to protect their children, including installing baby gates, outlet covers, and cabinet locks. Unfortunately, a significant household hazard is often overlooked. Many parents are unaware of the dangers associated with furniture and televisions that aren’t properly secured.

The death and injury statistics for TV and furniture tip-overs are truly eye opening. This infographic from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights some scary information including: 

• One child dies every two weeks when a TV, piece of furniture, or appliance falls on him or her.
• Tip-over accidents result in about 25,400 injuries per year for an average of three per hour.

In 2015, CPSC launched, “Anchor It!” a national public education campaign aimed at reducing the number of deaths and injuries from tipping furniture and TVs. Visit the campaign website for information, guidance, videos, and other materials on why and how to anchor your TVs and furniture.

Have a safe Halloween

Neighborhoods will soon be filled with witches, ghosts, princesses, and superheroes as families hit the streets to trick-or-treat. While Halloween is a favorite time of year for many kids and adults alike, it can present some safety concerns. Taking the proper precautions can ensure your family has a safe and enjoyable Halloween.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has compiled a list of valuable safety tips to help keep kids safe and healthy this Halloween. Check out the list to learn more about selecting safe costumes, carving and displaying pumpkins, preparing your home, trick-or-treating, making healthy choices, and dealing with food allergies at Halloween.