2007-63
PRESS RELEASE:  December 14, 2007
FROM:   The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT: Lieutenant John A. Eichkorn (785) 296-6800
Technical Trooper Edna Buttler (785) 296-6800

PMCA Donates Gas to Highway Patrol

Kansas Members Donate Gas to Patrol

The Kansas Highway Patrol may not have 12 magical, flying reindeer to pull its "sleighs" through the snowy nights, but the Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (PMCA) of Kansas is helping keep our troopers fueled up by gassing up patrol cars during the winter holidays. Through the Holiday Highway Safety Program, the PMCA is donating gasoline to the KHP to fill up patrol cars December 22 through January 1. Now in its 17th year, this partnership between the PMCA of Kansas and the Kansas Highway Patrol is an example of private and public entities working together to ensure the safety of motorists in Kansas.

"The Highway Patrol and the PMCA share a common goal to serve citizens and visitors to our state. Continuing public-private partnerships, such as the Holiday Highway Safety Program, is important to achieving that goal, as well as promoting overall traffic safety," said Patrol Superintendent Colonel William Seck. "The PMCA's generosity plays an important part in keeping the roadways safe during the busy travel season at a lesser expense to Kansas taxpayers."

The PMCA of Kansas is a nonprofit organization for independent petroleum distributors, gasoline retailers, and convenience store owners. This year, participating members of the PMCA will graciously provide 76 tanks of fuel for troopers to fuel up patrol vehicles.

During the 2006 Christmas and 2006-2007 New Year's holiday reporting periods, the Patrol made 88 impaired driving arrests, issued 619 occupant protection arrests and warnings, and assisted 2,144 motorists. During that period, PMCA donated fuel to run Patrol vehicles over 20,500 miles.

Motorists also may contribute to a safer traveling experience by using the following tips:

• Prepare your vehicle for winter travel by replacing your wiper blades, ensuring your tires have good tread, and checking your vehicle’s fluids, exhaust system, and other mechanical equipment.
• Clean frost and snow off all windows, mirrors, and lights, and use your headlights to provide optimum visibility.
• Accelerate and brake gently, and increase your following distance between you and other vehicles in adverse weather.
• Steer in the direction you want to go if your vehicle loses traction and begins to slide.
• Allow for more time when traveling to and from work, home, school, or other activities.
• Always wear your seat belt, and properly secure children in the proper safety seats.