plan process
 

DRAFT Goal: Safety & Security

Provide a safe and secure transportation system.

It is crucial to reduce the number and severity of accidents, just as it is important to effectively manage incidents through close coordination among transportation providers, system managers, and the emergency management community.

Strategies

1. Improve design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Proper road maintenance and the use of safety related improvements, such as lighting, dedicated bike lanes, cable barriers and rumble strips, greatly enhance safety.

2. Educate the public on safety issues and skills.

Public education on safe driving behavior is provided through ongoing campaigns, such as Oklahoma’s “Click it or ticket” initiative, or through national programs, such as “Nation Child Passenger Safety Week” or “Safe Routes to School”. Brochures and other resources on various safety topics are also available for distribution to the public. Emphasis must be placed on educating the new generation of drivers and riders.

 

3. Cooperatively implement traffic incident management techniques.

Traffic management includes the coordinated use of resources to reduce the duration and impact of incidents, and improve the safety of motorists, crash victims, and emergency responders alike. Such management techniques include early detection through roadway sensors, enhanced Wireless 911, and the quick clearance of crash sites to prevent secondary accidents.

 

—4. Promote enforcement of traffic laws and advocate for development of new safety policies.

Implementation of safety rules and enforcement of traffic laws are essential to discouraging unsafe driving and removing drivers from the roadway, who pose a hazard.

 

—5. Ensure the security of the transportation system.

The transportation system is designed for accessibility and efficiency, which makes it a perfect target for anyone seeking to disrupt travel and commerce. Reasonable measures must be taken to put in place and maintain a system of threat deterrence, protection, and response.

 

—Challenges to consider:

  • How do we foster better communication between transportation and emergency management professionals?

  • How can we reduce bad driving behavior?