“Take 5 to Stay Alive” – Don’t Text and Drive

WHEREAS, the City of ____________________ holds the health and safety of its residents and visitors as a vital concern; and

WHEREAS, wireless phone use has become pervasive throughout our community, the State of Florida, and the nation as a whole; and

WHEREAS, any time a driver attempts to send an electronic text message while driving, his or her attention is diverted from the road and the driver becomes a hazard to themselves, to passengers, other drivers and pedestrians as well; and

WHEREAS, studies found that 26% of American teens of driving age say that they have texted while driving, and 48% of all teens 12 to 17 say they have been a passenger while a driver has sent a text message; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of the “Take 5 to Stay Alive” public education campaign sponsored by the Broward Regional Emergency Medical Services Council is to improve roadway safety by preventing crashes related to the act of text messaging and other distractive driving behaviors by wireless phone users.

WHEREAS, “Take 5 to Stay Alive” is simple to do and can save your life. Take a break from driving and pull off the road to use your cell phone.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, _________________________ Mayor of _________________, along with the city Commission hereby proclaim the month of _________________ 2013 as:

“TAKE 5 TO STAY ALIVE” – DON’T TEXT AND DRIVE MONTH

And urge all residents to join us to promote safe driving and to educate the general public about the dangers of texting while driving.