5 proclamations on saving lives, honoring those who save lives

Gov. Eloy S. Inos is joined by Attorney General Joey Patrick San Nicolas, Public Safety Commissioner James Deleon Guerrero, other officials and law enforcement personnel for a group photo after the governor signed five proclamations on saving lives and honoring those who help save lives at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe yesterday. (Haidee V. Eugenio)

Saving lives and honoring those who help save lives were the binding theme in five proclamations that Gov. Eloy S. Inos signed before hundreds of law enforcement officers, emergency medical services personnel, dignitaries, and community members at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe yesterday.
The governor proclaimed May 11 to 17 CNMI Police Week and May 15 Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, owing to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies and personnel “to protect our citizens, enforce our laws, and keep neighborhoods safe.”

“They report for duty knowing full well the dangers they face and the sacrifices they may be called upon to make. On May 11-17, we pay tribute to the thousands of men and women who serve us with extraordinary bravery, and we remember the heroes who have laid down their lives in pursuit of a safer, more just society,” Inos said.

Inos also designated May 18 to 24 Emergency Medical Services Week, in recognition of emergency medical services that are a vital public service.

“Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury,” the governor said.

The emergency medical services system consists of emergency physicians, emergency nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, first responders, educators, and administrators, among others.

The governor also proclaimed May 17 to 23 CNMI Safe Boating Week, raising awareness on the importance of enforcing safe boating habits such as wearing a life jacket when operating or riding in a boat.

“It is a simple task that can save lives,” the governor said.

Knowing and obeying navigational rules are also a key, including not drinking alcohol or taking drugs while operating a boat.

Every year, 700 to 800 people in the United States die in boating-related incidents.

In the CNMI, boating safety officers responded to four drowning cases, five near drowning, three stranded swimmers, and one missing diver in 2013.

Inos also proclaimed May 21 Emergency Medical Services for Children Day, recognizing the value and accomplishments of dedicated men and women aiding children in medical emergencies.

A Click It or Ticket Mobilization Campaign for May 1 to June 1 was also proclaimed, raising awareness on the importance of wearing seatbelts while driving or riding motor vehicles.

The governor emphasized that regular seatbelt use is the single most effective way to reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes.

In 2012, seatbelts saved an estimated 12,174 lives. Between 2008 and 2012, the number of lives saved by seatbelts was estimated at 63,000.

Joining the governor in signing the proclamations were Attorney General Joey Patrick San Nicolas, Public Safety Commissioner James Deleon Guerrero, Corrections Commissioners Ray Mafnas, and other dignitaries.