Law officials are asking friends, family and aquaintences of non-seatbelt users to try their hand at persuading them to buckle up.
The “Torn Apart – Stay Together” campaign is the next step for the Alberta Occupant Restraint Program - a partnership of government agencies, traffic safety advocates, law enforcement, private insurance associations and injury prevention experts.
The new campaign launched this month is looking for the support of all Albertans to get a message to the remaining people who don’t buckle up.
“Maybe someone you know doesn’t wear their seatbelt,” says Rick Gardner, Acting Deputy Chief of the Alberta Sheriffs. “Maybe they haven’t been motivated by the fines, gory advertising or logical safety messages that have worked for 93 per cent of Albertans. Maybe the one persuasive voice they will listen to is a family member or loved one asking them to buckle up.”
Gary Brine, RCMP K Division Traffic Services Superintendent, says the tactic is not really a departure from previous campaigns.
“Our target audience is still people who choose not to wear seat belts. This new campaign takes a different approach by asking for the involvement and help from family and friends”.
- Smaldon
