Operation Lifesaver Launches New Site

OTTAWA, July 1, 2009 – Operation Lifesaver has re-launched its website with a brand new look and feel. The new site incorporates new material, videos and resources formatted for all ages to help reduce deaths and injuries around freight and passenger trains. The site, at www.operationlifesaver.ca, is “user friendly” and much easier to navigate, said Dan Di Tota, national director of the program.

“It will promote awareness and make it easier for people to find what they’re looking for. Year-to-date and longer term statistics and graphs are easy to find. A new resources section, organized by intended audience, will help teachers, parents and others, find everything they need,” said Mr.  Di Tota. A new events page will highlight upcoming events and recognize individuals and groups, including event stakeholders.  As well, the Home page will include a regular public opinion poll for participants. The former site attracted an average of 240,000 visitors a month.

The Operation Lifesaver program was formed in Canada in 1981 by Transport Canada, the Railway Association of Canada and their partners.  It has reduced highway-railway collisions by 74 per cent and trespassing incidents by 58 per cent since then.

Media Contacts:

Dan Di Tota, Operation Lifesaver

613-564-8094

Roger Cameron, Railway Association of Canada

613-564-8097

Sean Rushton, Transport Canada

613-991-6031