U of S Security Services introduces Highway Help program

Posted December 10, 1999


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 10, 1999 99-12-06-OTHER

U of S Security Services introduces Highway Help program

Saskatoon, SK -- The Department of Security Services at the University of Saskatchewan is participating in a national program that will help students and staff to be safe as they take to the highways for the Christmas holidays.

Working with the President's Advisory Committee on Personal Safety, Security Services is launching a Highway Help program on campus. The program is intended to create a safe and effective means for motorists to both give and receive help in the event of an emergency.

The Highway Help Program makes available to students, faculty, and staff a "PHONE POLICE" sign that can be displayed on the exterior of the vehicle when help is needed. The sign alerts motorists that help is required and they can provide that help without jeopardizing their own safety by simply alerting the police about the stranded motorist. The sign also provides added security for the driver of the stranded vehicle by informing would-be criminals that the police may have been notified by other passers-by.

This initiative was originally launched in Ontario and the President's Advisory Committee on Personal Safety recognized the value of the program and brought it back to the campus community.

"This program is of particular importance here in Saskatchewan where a sparse population in rural areas and a harsh climate raise serious concerns about travel in the winter," said Bob Ferguson, Acting Director, Security Services. "We want to ensure that the members of our community arrive at their destinations safely."

Signs are available at the Place Riel kiosk, the Women's Centre (Memorial Union Building), Security Services, the Agriculture Building kiosk, and the residence office in Saskatchewan Hall.

"A national launch of the program will take place on January 12, but by providing these signs free of cost to the university community now, we are hoping to make the holidays that much safer for family travel," said Candace Northey, Women's Centre Co-ordinator and member of the President's Advisory Committee on Personal Safety.

For more information, please contact:

Bob Ferguson
Acting Director
Security Services
(306) 966-8877
(306) 222-8276

Angie Montgomery
Special Constable
Security Services
(306) 966-4504
(306) 221-6920