You’re Never Too Cool to Buckle Up. That was the message of the winning video for the 2008 Battle of the Belt challenge.

For the third year, Missouri high schools competed against each other to increase safety belt use and save lives. Participating schools launched an educational campaign on the importance of safety belt use prior to performing surprise safety belt checks. They also had an opportunity to submit a 30-second public service announcement.

More than 125 Missouri high schools participated in the 2008 Battle of the Belt challenge. Statewide winners (see sidebar) were announced at a special awards presentation on March 16 in Jefferson City. The winners were:

• St. Joseph Academy (St. Louis) - Highest Overall Seat Belt Usage
• Blue Eye High School - Most Improved Seat Belt Usage
• Washington High School – Video/Public Service Announcement

“Eight out of 10 teens killed in Missouri vehicle crashes each year aren’t buckled up,” said Leanna Depue, chair of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety’s executive committee. “Through education, competition and fun, the Battle of the Belt competition can make a difference with Missouri teens and save lives.”

The top video entry features several students in their cars buckling up to their favorite music. The video, produced at Washington High School, reinforces that ‘you’re never too cool to buckle up.’ It can be viewed at saveMOyouth.com. Washington High School will receive a cash prize and the award-winning video will air statewide this year.

The winning video was featured at the presentation, and checks and trophies were presented to the student creators as well as the two schools that were most successful in their peer safety belt checks and educational campaign. American Family Insurance generously provided the prize money for the competition.

At the award presentation, Depue pointed out that the statewide winners are not afraid of a challenge. “They know the importance of buckling up, and have the prize money to prove it,” Depue said. “Congratulations to these schools. Their hard work and dedication have paid off.”

Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for people 15-20 years old. Results of a 2008 survey among Missouri teens indicate 48% of teens are not wearing seat belts.

For more information on Battle of the Belt and the 2008 winners, or to sign up your local high school for the 2009 challenge, visit www.saveMOyouth.com. Buckle Up and ARRIVE ALIVE!