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Goal: To enhance safety on our streets, in our neighborhoods, and in our homes by promoting positive behavior(s).Statement of Need1. Older adults are targeted as victims of fraud and scams.2. A lack of crosswalk safety measures (i.e., education, engineering & enforcement), particularly near schools, places pedestrians (especially children) at high risk related to motor vehicle related injuries. 3. A lack of knowledge of safety measures (especially seat belt usage) place children/passengers at increased risk for injury related to motor vehicle/traffic crashes. 4. Parents/caregivers lack adequate knowledge of safety issues related to childcare options. 5. Some victims of crime in Lycoming County lack knowledge of available preventive measures and resources; others are complacent and think it will not happen to them. Documentation of Need 1. There is an increased incidence of fraud victimization of older adults on a state level (Source: PA State Police, 2001). 2A. Videotaped footage of existing traffic conditions as well as pedestrian/driver behaviors document problem behaviors. These problem behaviors are particularly related to Cochran Elementary School and Curtin Middle School children as they cross key intersections en route to school. 2B. In 2001, approximately 24 children 14 and under died in pedestrian crashes in PA. Over 1900 children were injured. Children ages 5 to 9 accounted for the highest number of pedestrian injuries (PENNDOT Crash Facts, 2001). 3A. The number one killer of people under 35 is motor vehicle/traffic crashes. This includes bicycle, pedestrian, child passenger and seat belt safety issues (Health Status Indicators for PA Counties & Health Districts, 2000; Lycoming County Health Status Indicators; Injuries in PA/Hospital Discharges, 2000; PA SHIP 2001-2005). 3B. According to Lycoming County statistics, the reported frequency of usage of seat belts to prevent injury to children/passengers while riding in a car is 79.5% (Source: Comprehensive Highway Safety Observations, 12/02). 4. According to The Health Status of Lycoming County 1995-2000, while 67.3% of survey respondents in 2000 indicated parental supervision as the childcare arrangement, other arrangements included latchkey 4.2%, relatives 32.8%, child sitter 16.4% and “child alone”35.8%. 5. County statistics reveal the following rates of crime victimization: firearm- related death rate, 6.7; aggravated assault, 105.7; murder, 2.5; rape, 14.4 (Crime rate per 100,000 inhabitants; Source: PA State Police – County Data Book, 2001). Elder Abuse (Lycoming/Clinton Counties combined) 60 reports of abuse, 17 substantiated (2000-2001 Older Adults Protective Service Report, PA Dept of Aging); Lycoming County – 10 substantiated cases of elder abuse (Source: Lycoming County Area Agency on Aging); Domestic Violence 1024 {90 males, 944 females}- (Source: Victims’ Advocacy Program, YWCA; 7/1/02-6/30/02) Measurable Outcomes 1. Older adults participating in the Fraud Prevention Program at Senior Centers in Lycoming County will report an increase in knowledge related to fraud prevention. 2. Decrease in pedestrian safety hazards at key intersections, especially those located near schools. 3. Increase the number of children/passengers using seat belts in areas that have consistently “poor use rate” to reduce risk for injuries related to motor vehicle/traffic crashes. 4. Parents/caregivers will report an increase in knowledge of issues/concerns related to safe childcare options. 5. Victims of crime in Lycoming County will report an increase in knowledge of available preventive measures and resources. Evaluation 1A. Phase I: By 5/03, analysis of pre-post test data will reflect increased knowledge related to fraud prevention by 60% of older adults participating in the Fraud Prevention Program at Senior Centers in Lycoming County. 1B.Phase 2: By 8/03, analysis of post test data will reflect increased knowledge related to fraud prevention by 60% of older adults participating in the Home Improvement Fraud Prevention Program at Senior Centers in Lycoming County. 1C. By 8/03, increase hits to Lycoming County District Attorney’s Tip Hotline. NOTE: As of 4/30/03, 672 seniors in Lycoming County have been impacted by Phase I, Telemarketer Fraud Program (Lycoming County Office of Aging). 2A. By 9/03, crosswalk signage and improved pavement markings will be completed at key intersections located near schools (engineering). 2B. By 10/03, 40% of students and parents participating in a Pedestrian Safety Program at 2 schools in Lycoming County will report (via survey) increased knowledge related to safety issues/concerns (education). 2C. By 9/03, evidence (via observation) of increase in “police presence” at key intersections located near schools at “student crossing times” (enforcement). 3. By 7/03, increase in seat belt usage in areas that have consistently “poor use rate” (observation and comparison with 12/02 data). 4A. By 9/03, 10% of parents/caregivers of children attending day care & Head Start will report an increase in knowledge related to safe childcare options. 4B. By 7/03, 70% of first-time mothers enrolled in the Nurse Family Partnership Program will report an increase in knowledge related to safe childcare options. 5. By 9/03, survey data will reveal an Increase in knowledge of available protective measures and resources by victims of crime. Existing Programs 1. Lycoming County Senior Centers, Office of Aging, AARP 2. Comprehensive Highway Safety Program, PENNDOT, Bureau of Police, 3. Comprehensive Highway Safety Program, PENNDOT, Lycoming County Safe Kids Network, PA DOH 4. NFPP, Head Start, Daycare Centers, PA DOH 5. YWCA, Children & Youth, Lycoming-Clinton MH/MR, PA Department of Health, Office of Aging Work Plan 1A. Conduct Fraud Prevention Program at Senior Centers in Lycoming County and complete pre-post testing for Phase I. 1B. Conduct Home Improvement Fraud Prevention Program and complete post testing for Phase II. 1C. Monitor the number of hits on the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Tip Hotline on a monthly basis. 2A. Meet with local officials to discuss critical need for improvements related to crosswalk signage and pavement markings near key intersections located near schools. 2B. Develop and present a Pedestrian Safety Program at 2 schools in Lycoming County. 2C. Meet with local police officials during summer 2003 to discuss need for “increased police presence” at key intersections particularly during “student crossing times” 3. Continue collaborative education efforts among Comprehensive Highway Safety Program, Lycoming County Safe Kids Network and the DOH. 4A. 1) Develop a survey to assess knowledge related to the Baby Sitting Brochure; 2) contact the Directors of Daycare and Head Start Programs in Lycoming County to: a) determine number of parents/caregivers enrolled in their programs; b) request distribution of the brochures to all parents/caregivers; and c) request distribution to and collection of the survey from 1/3 of the parents/caregivers enrolled in their programs. 4B. Nurses working with first-time mothers enrolled in the Nurse Family Partnership Program will: 1) review the Baby Sitting Brochure with their clients (125 clients); 2) conduct a follow-up assessment/survey and; 3) analyze and report outcome data. 5. Develop educational materials/brochure designed to increase knowledge of victims of crime related to available preventive measures and resources by victims of crime. Approved: 5/9/03 Safe Communities Task Force/nao Online Brochures:
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