By Sarah Roebuck
Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW) highlights the critical risks roadway responders face when working to restore safe travel following traffic incidents.
This year’s theme, “Responders Ahead! Reduce Your Speed As You Proceed,” encourages drivers to keep the safety of law enforcement, fire-rescue, EMS, public works, transportation, towing and other responders at the forefront as they navigate crash scenes.
To support responder safety awareness during Crash Responder Safety Week, consider these key initiatives from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office that your organization can use to engage the community and promote safe practices on the road.
CRSW National Kickoff Webinar
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will host the National Kickoff Webinar on Nov. 18, 2024, at 1 p.m. ET, featuring a message from FHWA Acting Administrator Kristin White. This free webinar provides resources to support CRSW awareness, showcases initiatives to boost responder safety and calls on EMS and 911 stakeholders to sign the National CRSW Proclamation during the live event.
To register, click here.
CRSW Ally in Action Program
FHWA’s Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Program invites 911 and EMS stakeholders to participate in the CRSW Ally in Action Program. By adding their organization’s name and logo, or by sharing CRSW outreach materials, responders can help advocate for safer practices on the road, both for responders and the public.
To participate, click here.
The Traffic Incident Management Self-Assessment
To support the mission of Crash Responder Safety Week, FHWA encourages state and local transportation, public safety and private sector partners to complete the Traffic Incident Management Self-Assessment. This tool assists agencies in identifying areas of strength and potential improvements within their TIM programs, fostering a safer environment for all.
To take the self-assessment, click here.
First responders and their agencies are encouraged to register for the CRSW events and actively participate to help build a culture of safety on America’s roadways, NHTSA says.