During this Independence Day weekend, please take a moment to honor America and all that we are. Also, remember our military servicemen and women who are protecting our freedom across the globe and fighting for those who do not have the liberty our great country provides. Let us never forget those who have sacrificed before us to protect the United States and the values we hold dear.
Your next Idealease Safety Bulletin will be published on July 10 due to the Independence Day holiday.
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
To help keep families safe this Independence Day, law enforcement agencies will increase enforcement efforts focused on impaired driving throughout the 4th of July holiday period.
Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination. The consequences are abundantly clear, yet people continue to make the poor decision to drive after drinking. Please be smart and make this 4th of July holiday a fun and memorable one.
If you are headed to 4th of July parties, designate a sober driver before heading out for the evening. If you are hosting a party, offer nonalcoholic beverages for designated drivers and monitor who is drinking. If you see people leaving after they have been drinking, check how they are getting home. Offer to let them stay the night if a sober driver is not available to take them home.
Driving with "just a buzz" is still impaired driving. With the rise in rideshare options, there is simply no excuse for driving under the influence.
The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, including vehicle impound fees, fines, attorney fees, increased auto insurance premiums, and other penalties. In addition, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and marijuana can all impair your ability to drive and may result in a DUI, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs.
Have You Prepared Your Terminal Facility for the 4th of July Holiday?
It is not uncommon for thieves to target truck terminals and truck dealerships over holiday weekends. Thieves know that these extended weekends provide an opportunity for successful thefts because facilities are often unattended.
Take extra precautions to secure trucks and other valuable items at your facility. If your units do not have anti-siphon devices or locking fuel caps, instruct drivers not to fill the units at the end of the day. Ensure all security alarms and cameras are in working order. Walk the perimeter of the lot to verify that security fencing is in good condition.
Move trucks and other materials, such as pallets and tires, far enough away from the fence so they cannot be used to climb over it. Review your security lighting to ensure it is operational and adequate. Keep in mind that vehicles or overgrown trees can obstruct lighting, creating areas where thieves can go unseen.
Consider blocking the entrances and exits to your lot to help prevent vehicle theft. Throughout the three-day weekend, assign management personnel to check the terminal at random times. Notify local law enforcement of your holiday operating hours so they know when activity at your location is expected.
A little prevention and common sense can go a long way toward deterring thieves from targeting your facility and disrupting your business.
Cargo Theft and the 4th of July
Noteworthy thefts from previous Independence Day holidays:
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$180,000 in meat products from Georgetown, Texas
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$439,895 in medical supplies from Davenport, Florida
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$352,000 in computer electronics from San Francisco, California
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$180,000 in ATVs from Savannah, Georgia
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$314,191 in computer electronics from Commerce, California
CVSA Brake Safety Week Scheduled for August 23–29
This year's Brake Safety Week is scheduled for August 23–29, according to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).
The enforcement campaign is part of the larger Brake Safety Awareness Month, which takes place throughout August.
During CVSA's annual enforcement event, roadside inspectors will:
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Focus on brake systems and components while conducting North American Standard Inspections.
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Place special emphasis on brake drums and rotors during this year's inspections.
The association will issue a report on its findings later this year.
The event also provides an opportunity for motor carriers to educate drivers and maintenance personnel on the importance of brake safety.
