FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2008
Contact: Jonathan Adkins, jadkins@ghsa.org
202-789-0942
GHSA and State Farm® Partner to Keep ‘Tweens and Teens Safe
New Manual Addresses Passenger Safety
Washington, D.C. —The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has published a new best practices manual on occupant protection for children (OPC). The guide was developed with the resources and support of State Farm Insurance Companies®. The new publication follows previously developed comprehensive guidelines and an assessment tool for state highway safety offices to examine their OPC programs and focus their resources where they are most needed.
The Manual highlights programs that are designed to address the needs of children who fall between a booster seat program and traditional driver education programs. These children are typically between the ages of eight and 16. The new publication complements available resources to assist highway safety offices and community programs in their mission to provide a comprehensive approach to OPC efforts. The manual represents the next step toward a stronger, data-driven and research-based program. It provides examples of various program components that be replicated throughout the country.
“This is an example of what can be achieved when businesses and communities work together to save lives,” said Mike Fernandez, Vice-President, Public Affairs at State Farm. “We are pleased to help GHSA make this publication available to safety organizations across the country.”
The Occupant Protect for Children: Best Practices Manual is available as a PDF document online at www.ghsa.org. There are also a limited number of print copies available. E-mail Jonathan Adkins (jadkins@ghsa.org) to request a copy.
GHSA is grateful to Susan N. Bryant of LeaderServices for her work on researching and writing this publication. Additionally, an advisory team led by GHSA Executive Director Barbara Harsha and made up of representatives from GHSA, NHTSA, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and State Farm provided direction and leadership for the project.
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