News Release

April 1, 2005

 Greene County Combined Health District
Announces National Work Zone Awareness Week
April 3 – 9, 2005

 (XENIA, OH) Greene County Combined Health District in collaboration with Greene County Safe Communities Coalition, the Ohio Department of Public Safety, and the Federal Highway Administration announces National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 3 – 9, 2005.

 Work zone fatalities are on the rise throughout the State of Ohio. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, in 2003, there were 1,168 work zone related deaths in crashes and 95,970 injuries.

 Health Commissioner, Mark A. McDonnell, reminds county residents that work zones are necessary and needed for continued road maintenance and road improvement.  While work zones can be an inconvenience, Mr. McDonnell shares some tips for driving through work zones. These tips include: stay alert and give full attention to the roadway; pay close attention to signs and work zone flaggers; turn on headlights so workers and other driver can see vehicles; do not tailgate; do not speed; slow down to the posted speed limits’; keep up with the traffic flow; do not change lanes in work zones; minimize distractions in vehicles; avoid changing radio stations and using cell phones; expect the unexpected; keep an eye on workers and their equipment; and be patient. Practice these tips throughout the road construction season. Keep in mind that highway workers want to return home safely at the end of their workday.

 For additional information regarding National Work Zone Safety Week, contact Greene County Combined Health District. Beth Player, Health Educator, 937-374-5600 or 1-866-858-3588.

 Greene County Combined Health District – Your center for public health services and health information in Greene County for over 70 years.

Healthy People…Healthy Communities

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