May 7, 2001

PRESS RELEASE

To: Newsroom

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer

Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

National Safe Kids Week: Local Group to Host Safety Fair

■ Mayor proclaims National SAFE KIDS week in Shreveport

In celebration of National SAFE KIDS week, Mayor Keith Hightower has proclaimed the week of May 5-12, 2001, National SAFE KIDS week in Shreveport and called upon all residence to join him in supporting the efforts and activities of the NW SAFE KIDS Coalition to prevent childhood injuries. To celebrate National Safe Kids Week, the NW Louisiana SAFE KIDS Coalition will host a Safety Fair at the Louisiana Fairgrounds on May 12. This safety fair will provide parents, care givers, and children the opportunity to learn about summer safety together, through interactive displays and games. Safety stations will encourage parents and children to ride safe, wheel safe, walk safe, and play safe this summer:

When: Saturday, May 12, 2001 from 10:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m.

Where: Louisiana State Fairgrounds

In the parking lot across form the baseball stadium

Admission: FREE

According to national statistics, this year nearly three million children will be rushed to emergency rooms for serious, preventable injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents, drownings, bike crashes, pedestrian accidents, falls, and other hazards. Preventable injuries are the leading killer of children ages 14 and under. There will be many interactive and educational activities for the kids and parents at this years fair as well as car seat checks. Through public awareness activities like SAFE KIDS week, the NW Louisiana SAFE KIDS coalition seeks to educate parents about potential risks to children.

Participating sponsors in this years safety fair include: NW Louisiana SAFE KIDS Coalition, Shreveport Fire and Police Departments, Bossier Parish 911, Bossier Parish Emergency Medical Services, Life Air Rescue Flight Team, Think-First, and Helmet Your Head. For more information about the NW Louisiana SAFER KIDS Coalition contact Coordinator Larry Dixey at 681-6821. ###