Hiram – Last Wednesday in Independence, the Hiram Police Department received the prestigious American Automobile Association (AAA) Platinum Award for community safety programs and education. The national award is given annually to recognize police departments for their efforts toward improving roadway and pedestrian safety. The award was bestowed on the Department by local and national AAA representatives.
While quite an honor, 2013 marks the second consecutive year that the Hiram Police Department has received the Platinum Award, which is the top recognition bestowed by AAA. According to Hiram Police Chief Ed Samec,”We take great pride in our community programs, because we feel that education is the key to diminishing and eliminating traffic injuries and death. Providing drivers and pedestrians with better information helps them make better decisions, and reduces avoidable vehicle crashes.”
Chief Samec and the Hiram Police Department were recognized for their work in community education and enforcement through programs including “Click It Or Ticket” seat belt checks, bicycle helmet safety and bike rodeo programs, and alcohol awareness programs at Hiram College and within the Hiram Community. “Being honored by AAA on a national level means a lot to us, and we’re proud to have received this award for the second year in a row,” beams Chief Samec.
