Today, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) and the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) held a ceremony to honor emergency responders as part of Crash Responder Safety Week, which occurs nationally Nov. 18-22, 2024.
“Today’s ceremony is a chance to recognize the bravery, skill and dedication of Nebraska’s emergency responders, who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” said Lt. Governor Joe Kelly. “During Crash Responder Safety Week, we’re reminded of the critical role these men and women play and of our responsibility to support them by practicing safe driving habits. Simple actions on the road can make a life-saving difference for those who work to protect us all.”
Crash Responder Safety Week is a national initiative sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The campaign emphasizes drivers’ responsibility to ‘Protect Those Who Protect You’ by promoting simple safety practices that keep emergency responders out of harm’s way on the road.
“Protecting Nebraskans and emergency responders requires everyone, especially drivers, to do their part by slowing down, moving over and respecting those serving as first responders,” explained NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “At NDOT, we are committed to uniting responders across the state to improve incident response, share best practices and conduct essential training through Nebraska’s five regional Traffic Incident Management working groups. But we also need the public to step up and give responders the space they need to work safely on the road.”
“Celebrating this week brings needed attention to move-over laws and reinforces the importance of Traffic Incident Management training for first responders,” said Major Jeff Wilcynski of the NSP. “Every day, law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS, towing services and others work to ensure road safety. This week serves as a reminder for drivers to practice safe habits on every trip.”
On November 6, 2024, Governor Pillen signed a proclamation declaring National Crash Responder Safety Week, highlighting the essential role crash responders play in swiftly and effectively managing and clearing traffic incidents. Additionally, in September, NDOT and its partners recognized first responders from Banner, Cheyenne, Deuel, Kimball, and Scotts Bluff Counties, who formalized their commitment to safety by signing a memorandum of understanding.
NDOT and NSP remind drivers to slow down and, if possible, move into another lane when passing an incident scene. Be patient, stay alert, and give emergency responders the space they need to work. Protect those who protect you, and together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.
Visit 511.nebraska.gov for a real-time look at Nebraska traffic. Stay safe, plan ahead, follow detours and always remember to buckle up and put your phone down.
Video of the event can be viewed on NDOT’s Facebook page and photos can be viewed here: 2024 Crash Responder Safety Week Press Conference | Flickr.