Many wireless carriers last week participated in Wireless Safety Week by encouraging subscribers to help out in emergency situations and use their wireless phones responsibly while driving. Carriers used everything from radio public-service announcements to celebrity endorsements to spread the safety message heading into Memorial Day weekend.
BellSouth Cellular Corp. sponsored traffic reports for several radio stations in its markets with a message encouraging the responsible use of wireless phones while driving.
United States Cellular Corp. developed driving safety awareness programs across its markets and has incorporated the safety message into all of its advertising campaigns.
Bell Atlantic Mobile provided wireless safety tips to customers.
Ameritech Cellular & Paging, AAA Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation launched the 1998 “Keep Your Mind on the Drive” campaign with the help of Fernando Vina, second baseman for the Milwaukee Brewers.
Sprint Spectrum L.P. and Qualcomm Inc. announced they will award prizes to participants in their Driver’s Safety Quiz at Sprint PCS stores. The grand prize is an all-expense paid trip for two Oct. 11 to the Indy Racing League’s Las Vegas 500 race. Sprint also is displaying safety guidelines established by the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association on its Web site.
Rogers Cantel Inc. and Mobility Canada launched a national cellular safety effort, which includes print advertising and radio public service announcements.
President Clinton recognized Wireless Safety Week and the contributions of U.S. citizens who have used wireless phones to help others. Everyday, citizens are “using wireless telephones not only to strengthen personal and professional communications, but also to safeguard their schools and homes from crimes and violence and to help one another in times of need,” said Clinton.
CTIA on June 3 will honor winners of its 1998 VITA Wireless Samaritan Awards, including people from all states and the District of Columbia who used a wireless phone in an emergency.
