COLUMBUS - In anticipation of heavy traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to contribute to roadway safety by planning ahead for increased drive time and making safety their first priority while driving.

Troopers recommend that motorists contact the Patrol by calling 1-877-7-PATROL when they see a disabled vehicle or unsafe driver.

"We all share the responsibility of making this a safe holiday on Ohio roadways by obeying all traffic laws, driving with courtesy, and by drivers insisting that every occupant buckles their safety belt before traveling," Colonel Paul McClellan, Patrol superintendent, said. "As a member of the motoring public, you can help save lives by reporting unsafe and aggressive drivers to law enforcement. If you see a disabled vehicle or an unsafe driver, please call the Patrol or local law enforcement for assistance."

The Patrol recommends that in the event of a vehicle breakdown, turn on hazard warning lights, safely position the vehicle as far off the road as possible and open the hood. Place a "help" sign in the rear window, and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives. If a cell phone is available, dial 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance and the call will be directed to the nearest Patrol post.

Troopers suggest all motorists have the following items in their vehicle in case of a breakdown:

1. Cell phone or CB radio
2. Flares or reflectors
3. Help or Call Police signs
4. White flag or handkerchief
5. First aid kit
6. Flashlight
7. Reflective tape

Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 12 people were killed in 11 crashes on Ohio's roadways. Only five of the 12 people killed were wearing the safety belts available to them at the time of the crash.

Increased and specialized enforcement is made possible through federal overtime funding and works in conjunction with Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort), which was formed as a multi-jurisdictional national program of patrol, enforcement, and planning activities committed to crash reduction.

# # #

06-330