newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2009/0513/front_page/013.htmlMay 21 safety forum to cover many issues
BY CLARE MARIE CELANO Staff Writer
FREEHOLD — A heightened sense of safety and security and a more peaceful quality of life for borough residents is the goal of an upcoming safety forum being sponsored by the Freehold Borough Human Relations Committee, according to Ricky White, committee chairman.
The safety forum will be held on May 21 from 7-10 p.m. in the auditorium of Freehold High School, Broadway.
According to White, the forum will feature guest speakers who will discuss many facets of personal and community safety. Topics will range from emergency services to dealing with the many challenges inherent in today's technology.
"Presenters will include Freehold Borough Traffic and Safety Officer Sean Healy, who will provide tips on traffic safety in town, members of the Freehold Fire Department, who will provide general safety tips regarding fire, and members of the Freehold First Aid and Emergency Squad, who will provide information on basic first aid techniques as well as techniques on how to protect oneself," White said.
Internet safety will be discussed by Human Relations Committee member and teacher Ismael Castro. A trauma nurse will address the issue of teenagers driving with a provisional driver's license.
White said the program will also include a presentation from Human Relations Committee member James Wallace on dealing with drug abuse through the Intoxicated Drivers Resource Center, Freehold.
The safety forum will also have a presentation on the consequences of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and the consequences of driving distracted.
There will also be a question and answer session.
"Everyone is concerned about personal safety, especially as the news brings forth daily all types of tragedies that may have been prevented," White said. "Times are tough enough now, but by learning how to enjoy a heightened sense of safety and security, our residents may be able to enjoy a more peaceful quality of life."
White said all Freehold Borough residents are invited and encouraged to attend the forum and to meet the Human Relations
Committee members and
the guest speakers.
Freehold Borough Councilman Jaye Sims, who is the governing body's liaison to the Human Relations Committee, said he is looking forward to the safety forum and is hoping it will generate a great deal of support from the public.
Sims said he is proud of the Human Relations Committee members who have worked hard to plan the safety forum. He said he believes the event will be very beneficial to residents.
"We are very lucky our committee members have access to so many helpful resources," Sims said.
He said efforts are being made to have interpreters present at the safety forum to assist individuals who do not speak English. Sims said Rita Dentino, an advocate for the Latino community, is heading up that aspect of the event.
For more information about the May 21 safety forum at Freehold High School, contact Ricky White at 732-685-1890.
