PCC Receives Federal Funds from Governor's Office of Highway Safety

December 20, 2010

Tucson, AZ – In an effort to save more lives on Arizona’s roads, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) is partnering with Pima Community College’s Department of Public Safety (PCC-DPS) and other local law enforcement agencies to reduce the number of incidents and accidents, to educate the public on the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence, and to promote and enhance child passenger safety.

PCC-DPS has received $20,500 in federal funds from the GOHS to enhance DUI enforcement at PCC’s campuses and surrounding patrol areas.  The funds will allow PCC-DPS to conduct multiple DUI Task Force Details, increasing the number of contacts and arrests. That will reduce alcohol-related collisions, injuries and fatalities.  To decrease youth alcohol violations, PCC-DPS also will educate area youth regarding the consequences of alcohol consumption.

PCC-DPS also has received $2,730 in federal funds to promote the correct use of child safety seats at PCC’s campuses and surrounding patrol areas.  According to the 2008 Arizona Crash Fact Summary, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death and serious physical injury among children younger than 5.  Each year in Arizona, non-use or misuse of child safety seats results in the deaths of 15 to 20 children younger than 5. With the funding, PCC-DPS officers will inspect car seats to determine proper installation, provide instruction on proper usage and educate the public on the dangers of traveling with a child who is unrestrained or improperly restrained in a vehicle.

CONTACT:
A. Rachelle Howell, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Marketing,
(520) 206-4850