Secure Your Load, Save a Life Washington campaign returns to prevent crashes and protect communities

The Secure Your Load for Safer Roads campaign launches in Washington to increase awareness about the dangers of unsecured vehicle loads. As summer travel approaches, officials stress that unsecured loads led to 337 crashes and 32 injuries last year, highlighting the need for preventative measures. The initiative coincides with National Secure Your Load Day on June 6, which honors those affected by roadway debris. Casey Sixkiller from the Washington Department of Ecology states that securing cargo can significantly reduce accidents and litter. This year, the campaign includes distributing free cargo nets and ratchet straps at community events and offering discounts on tie-down equipment to drivers.

Law enforcement will conduct emphasis patrols, monitoring for unsecured loads and educating drivers. Fines for unsecured loads can range from $50 to $5,000, depending on the incident. The campaign aims to make securing loads a routine practice, ultimately reducing crashes and saving lives.