Law Enforcement Professionals
Police Officers and First Responders will be Updated on Research & Recommendations in two new trainings:
"Reducing Crash Injury through Active and Visible Enforcement"
and
"Reducing Crash Injury: Key Roles for First Responders"
Law enforcement officers and first responders have an opportunity to receive
the latest information on vehicle restraints and protecting adult and child passengers
in 2- hour trainings being offered around the state in 2007 and 2008. The interactive
sessions will be specific to the needs of participants, and will incorporate
the latest research, crash-test videos, demonstrations, and vital information
for public education efforts, injury prevention and enforcement.
"Addressing passenger injury and death and helping the public avoid them are
key issues for first responders and law enforcement," according to Patty Carrell,
Project Coordinator at Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies (HMHB). "The public looks
to these professionals for advice on keeping themselves and their families safe."
The program has enlisted Joseph M. Colella, a recognized national expert on passenger
safety, to create and deliver the accredited trainings to Montana communities
throughout the coming year. Colella has taught officers and first responders
in 43 states, and already helped HMHB bring the well-received presentation, "Crash
Injury & Healthcare" to healthcare professionals at nearly 40 provider sites
throughout the state during 2006.
"Motor vehicle crashes are the leading killer and injurer for most age groups,
and the frequency of deaths and injuries on Montana roads is increasing," emphasizes
Colella. "Since firefighters, emergency medical service providers and law enforcement
officers are respected community members, and their credibility on injury issues
is naturally high, they are in a unique position to help families protect themselves
against crash forces."
Preventing injuries from ever occurring is far more effective than any level of emergency response and treatment, and most serious injuries can be avoided through education and referral to community resources. Through appropriate training, program participation, media relations, and familiarity with local experts, first-responders are empowered to help save lives and prevent injuries.
Active and visible enforcement of occupant protection laws is also a critical part in saving lives. "The laws of physics supersede Montana statutes, so officer education is paramount," claims Colella. "Through education, enforcement, and referral to community resources, most serious injuries can be prevented. Nothing a police officer does has as much potential to save lives and prevent injuries as actively enforcing occupant protection laws."