November 12, 2015
Look for the red ribbons! Hundreds of bus drivers will be wearing red ribbons next week as the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) asks all employees to participate in the 29TH annual “Tie One on for Safety” campaign sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The campaign, which asks adults to display red ribbons on their cars, is intended to remind people to designate a non-drinking driver before the holidays begin. “We’re very excited to partner with MADD on this important campaign,” said Barbara Polichetti, Director of Public Affairs for RIPTA. “By wearing the ribbons, our drivers can help remind people to behave responsibly and be safe. Our drivers are on the road day and night, so it’s an issue that’s particularly important here at RIPTA as we want to help keep our passengers, the public and our staff safe this holiday season.” Polichetti added that all of RIPTA’s nearly 800 employees will be asked to don the ribbons for the week beginning, Monday, November 16, 2015. According to statistics provided by MADD, the holidays are one of the most dangerous times of the year on our nation’s roadways, due to increased travel as well as an increased number of events where alcohol is served. Eric Creamer, Rhode Island Executive Director for MADD, said that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve 2013, there were 846 drunk driving fatalities across the country. “We thought that partnering with RIPTA would be a perfect fit,” Creamer said. “Their drivers interact with thousands of people every day and also public transportation is a reminder that there are other options than getting behind the wheel if you’ve been at a holiday celebration.” RIPTA is also reminding the public that MADD RI is hosting a special event – “Strike Out Drunk Driving bowling weekend – on November 21 and November 22 which will raise funds to benefit victims of accidents involving drunk driving as well as support youth programs. For more details on the event, please visit: http://www.madd.org/local-offices/ri/events/strike-out-drunk-driving.html. For more information on RIPTA services, please call 401-781-9400 or visit www.ripta.com.