100 DAYS OF H.E.A.T.

This roadblock at the intersection of U.S. 27 and U.S. 62 bypasses was one of many across the county Friday afternoon and evening.

This past weekend wasn't a particularly good weekend to "head out on the highway looking for adventure" as Early County was the site for Georgia's kickoff of two aggressive traffic enforcement programs.

Over 60 officers from 14 law enforcement agencies from across Southwest Georgia converged in Blakely Friday beginning a summertime crackdown on dangerous drivers.

Numerous traffic road blocks were set up Friday afternoon in Blakely. Following a late afternoon meeting and some training, the officers spread out into the county to set up additional road blocks.

Of the 68 tickets issued during the road blocks, improper child restraint was the leading violation with 19 tickets issued. Driving without a license (10) and having an open alcoholic beverage in the vehicle (10) were next. Only one motorist was charged with DUI.

In addition to the citations, seven drivers were arrested and six vehicles were impounded.

The high profile activity kicked off the Governor's Office of Highway Safety Operation Zero Tolerance.

"Operation Zero Tolerance is our campaign specifically targeting impaired driving," stated Tony Bobbitt, Office of Highway Safety liaison. "The program also targets illegal drug paraphernalia, wanted people driving without license and occupant safety violations."

Friday's activities were also the kickoff of the fifth annual 100- Days-of H.E.A.T. - Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic - conducted each summer in conjunction with July 4th - the second deadliest day of the year on America's highways.

There was a focus on child safety seats, and booster seats during the stops. Child seat technicians were on hand to help those who were not in compliance with Georgia law.

The agencies participating in Friday's roadblocks were all part of the Southwest Georgia Traffic Enforcement Network which includes 12 counties.

Each month officers from those agencies volunteer their time to converge somewhere in those 12 counties for a safety effort like the one Friday in Early County.

There are almost 1,600 fatalities each year on Georgia Highways. Those officers volunteering their time believe their efforts will help reduce that number, and prove to motorists that they are serious about highway safety.

"We appreciate what they did here this weekend," stated Sheriff Jimmie Murkerson. "Our officers are proud to be a part of those programs helping all our remain citizens safer on our highways."

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