COLUMBUS - In anticipation of heavy traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to contribute to roadway safety by calling 1-877-7-PATROL when they see a disabled motorist or unsafe driver.

"We all share the responsibility of keeping the roadways in Ohio among the safest to travel in the nation," Colonel Paul McClellan, Patrol superintendent, said. "As a member of the motoring public, you can be a great resource for law enforcement. If you see a disabled motorist or an unsafe driver, call the Patrol for help."

The Patrol is recommending that in the event of a vehicle breakdown, get the vehicle as far off the road as possible, open the hood, and turn on hazard lights. Place a "help" sign in the rear window, and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives. If a cell phone is available, dial 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance. The call will be directed to the nearest Patrol post.

Troopers suggest all motorists have the following items in their vehicle in case of a breakdown: cell phone or CB radio; flares or reflectors; Help or Call Police signs; white flag or handkerchief; first aid kit; flashlight; and reflective tape.

As troopers know all too well, standing on the side of a busy highway is very dangerous. Troopers take this risk everyday to protect the public from unsafe drivers. Disabled motorists should avoid standing outside of their vehicles on heavily trafficked highways.

Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 19 people were killed in 17 crashes on Ohio's roadways. Of the 19 people killed, 17 had safety belts available, yet only six were wearing them at the time of the crash. One of the 19 killed was a pedestrian.

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