Whatcom County Public Works is teaming up with transportation stakeholders nationwide to participate in National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), April 15-19, 2024.
NWZAW has been observed for more than 20 years and was launched as a public awareness campaign to help everyone understand their role in keeping motorists and roadway workers safe. This year’s theme is “Work Zones are temporary. Actions behind the wheel can last forever.”
Statistics from the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse show there were 874 fatal crashes in work zones resulting in 956 deaths in 2021. In addition, 108 roadway workers were killed in work zones. The vast majority of people killed in work zones were motorists, passengers, and pedestrians. Those statistics demonstrate the importance of work zone safety and spreading the message that everyone plays a role in getting roadway workers home safely.
During NWZAW, various state departments of transportation, federal agencies, and other organizations will encourage safe driving through work zones. In Whatcom County, Executive Satpal Sidhu has signed a proclamation in observance of National Work Zone Awareness Week. Whatcom County Public Works will share safety messages and educational tips on social media throughout the week.
To learn more about National Work Zone Awareness Week, visit www.nwzaw.org.
Follow Whatcom County Public Works on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) for more tips on safe driving in work zones.
Work Zone Safety Tips:
- Pay attention. Be aware of all work zone signs indicating reduced speeds, traffic pattern changes, and other important information.
- Avoid distractions. This includes cell phone use, eating, drinking, and operating radios or navigation systems.
- Slow down. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Slow down and watch for roadside workers, heavy equipment, and other drivers.
- Keep your distance. Rear-end crashes are prevalent in work zones – always maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
- Research your route. GPS apps and similar resources can help you be aware of upcoming work zones before you hit the road. When possible, research your route ahead of time and use detours or alternative roads to avoid these areas.
