The Kansas Department of Transportation recently announced the winners of their “Put the Brakes on Fatalities” poster contest, in which kids ages 5 through 13 were invited to create artwork on the theme of traffic safety.

The Kansas poster contest is part of a national Put The Brakes On Fatalities Day, held annually on October 10th to raise awareness of the importance of traffic safety. The goal is to encourage everyone whether as a driver, passenger, pedestrian or cyclist to take extra caution each and every day to prevent crashes from occurring.

Three winners — one in each age category: 5-7, 8-10, and 11-13 — were selected in each of six Kansas regions, and they each received a free bicycle and helmet. Three statewide winners (one in each age category) received a family vacation at select destinations in Kansas.

The following are a few of the winning entries on such important topics as bicycle safety, driving while distracted, and pedestrian safety:

“Look Both Ways, Share The Road”
Kassie Zimmer, Age 5, LaCrosse, KS

“We All Deserve A Chance To Live”
Joseph Bennett, Age 11, Manhattan, KS

“Distractions Can Be Deadly”
Logan Proffitt, Age 9, Columbus, KS

“Signs Are Important!”
Stephanie Barrientos, Age 7, Dodge City, KS

Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you for leading the way in improving traffic safety. Everyone can learn for your example.