In an effort to raise awareness about traffic safety, the Lebanese Organization of Studies and Training (LOST), with the support of USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI) carried out several activities and awareness sessions related to road safety, in several villages of Baalbeck-Hermel. These activities and awareness sessions were aimed at deceasing traffic accidents, and making students aware about road safety in schools. An awareness campaign was launched in 8 villages: Baalbeck, Hermel, Ersal, Ein, Labwi, Deir El Ahmar, Chmestar, and Brital.
In Baalbeck, LOST trainers introduced their own experience in road safety, and gave some tips about the protection from car crashes, which focused on the importance of a wearing a seatbelt, having children sit in hind seats of the car, wearing a helmet while driving a motorcycle, respecting and obeying laws and traffic signs, and the importance of sidewalks and footbridges. In addition, small well-equipped cars were placed in the playground of the schools, where students were able to drive them, while paying attention to traffic signs. At the end of the activity, participants received certificates.
In Hermel, which is an area known for a huge number of motorcycle accidents, 70 helmets were distributed to motorcycle drivers. On to Ein, road traffic signs and a lift gate were installed. In addition, books about road safety were distributed to teachers from different schools, for students aged 8-12 years. In Labwi, 30 motorcycle helmets were distributed to motorcycle drivers, as well as road safety books. In Ersal, Chmestar, and Britel, road traffic signs are expected to be installed, in addition to trainings about driving.
Furthermore, in Deir El Ahmar, LOST staff distributed 55 car seats, which is an initiative that comes in the framework of supporting the improvement of traffic safety conditions in Baalbeck-Hermel, in implementation of the recommendations of the National Council for Traffic Safety. This initiative ensures children’s safety while riding in a car, and will assist in preventing injuries from potential car accidents.
LOST’s partnership with OTI assisted in raising awareness about road safety throughout Baalbeck-Hermel, where road accidents are very prevalent. Community members are now more aware of road signs, the importance of wearing a seatbelt, and other safety practices while driving.