The Traffic Safety program is one of the main activities of the Lebanese Red Cross Youth. Started in 2002, it is now a nationwide program with members in all parts of Lebanon. Its goal is to increase the awareness of the dangers driving, in the Lebanese public.

Biggest yet

One of the major dangers is drivers who are under the influence of alcohol, and this problem is sharply accentuated on New Year’s Eve. In response to this, the Lebanese Red Cross Youth’s Traffic Safety program on December 29 organized their largest event yet. Several hundred volunteers took to the streets in high-traffic areas all across Lebanon, distributing over 60,000 flyers and stickers to drivers. The flyers contained information and tips on how one can avoid drinking and driving, such as agreeing on who will be the driver before you go out, or take a taxi. Also were stands featuring music and banners, as well as photos of car accidents. Free reflector chips were given away at the stands, of the kind that is worn by pedestrians to allow motorists to see them in the dark.

Reaching many

The leader of the program, Antoine Badaoui, says that most of the people who were approached by the Red Cross volunteers were very welcoming, and greatly appreciated the initiative. Some had nevertheless a rather indifferent feeling about their efforts, which goes to show the continued need of such an activity. The activity was however not limited only to the hours the volunteers spent in contact with the public. Three thousand posters were well ahead of time put up in strategic locations around the country, for example restaurants. The campaign was covered by five television networks, three radio stations, and a number of newspapers.

Other safety issues

Drinking and driving is only one of many aspects of traffic safety that the Traffic Safety program is addressing. They also target the use of seatbelts and hands-free, why speeding is dangerous, and how to be a safe pedestrian. Badaoui explains that an important part of their work is targeted towards children. This is because children are particularly vulnerable, and also because if they learn the rules and dangers of traffic at an early age, they are likely to become better drivers when they grow up.

As a side note it should be mentioned that the Lebanese Red Cross Youth has its own driver’s license that is required for anyone who needs to drive one of the Red Cross vehicles. It is a two-day seminar with both theory exams and tests behind the wheel.