The number one cause of death in young people (aged 5–30) in Mexico is road traffic accidents. Nationally, they are also the leading cause of disability, leaving thousands of young people and paralyzed and prevented from walking for the rest of their lives. The main causes are speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, using mobile phones while driving, listening to music at high volume or doing other tasks, such as smoking or putting on make-up. That is why raising awareness of the dangers among young people has become a major priority for the youth section of the Mexican Red Cross. On 26 April, the coordination units and youth of local Red Cross branches initiated a campaign with messages on safety and responsibility on the road in an effort to reduce the number and severity of road accidents. The campaign of the Red Cross included presentation of videos and discussions among young people in schools; warning posters in bars and cafes; demonstrations of accident scenes in public squares; an Internet campaign which included the mass distribution of postcards and videos. The Red Cross also could rely in the support of broadcast companies including radio stations, which have been particularly effective at getting the road safety message to young people all over the country.
The campaign is going to become a permanent programme of the Mexican Red Cross youth and more partners in the media are being sought. Advertisements, posters and postcards related to the campaign "Drive for life, not for death" are being distributed throughout the country and in the media, seeking to raise awareness of the risks before people decide to drive after taking alcohol or other drugs. The effects of road accidents caused by drunk drivers are displayed in large banners and mock accidents that are organized by Red Cross youth, with the support of emergency medical staff as well as fire-fighters and other emergency response teams.
|
 |
 |
|
|
A volunteer of the Mexican Red Cross youth distributes information to drivers on road safety / Mexican Red Cross
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Poster campaigns were one way of spreading the message of road safety to young people / Mexican Red Cross youth
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Poster campaigns were one way of spreading the message of road safety to young people / Mexican Red Cross youth
|
|
News
