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NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
It's official, there were no highway traffic or drowning deaths in 2011 throughout the territory.

A good news story, according to the Mounties, whose records reveal the data.

"That is excellent news," said Cpl. Wes Heron of the Northwest Territories 'G' Division. "It's more of a testament to (having) more information available to the travelling public, both on the highways and roadways and also the waterways."

Education programs throughout the territory have helped to diminish the number of fatalities, said Heron.

"It's more education on safe operation of vehicles or boats," Heron said. "I think as people are becoming more aware and wanting to get home safe. They are taking the necessary equipment with them."

Efforts by enforcement and a diligent approach to safety also play a role, according to Heron.

"That kind of stuff could be attributed to a great show, not only by the RCMP Highway Traffic Services but the NWT Transportation Enforcement Unit as well ... it's everybody coming together to ensure that they get to where they are going safely."

Programs like MADD and the Department of Transportation's Drive Safe program are getting through to motorists, and the statistics prove it, a transportation official said.

"We think the zero fatalities on the road and trails can be attributed to the response of NWT residents to the knowledge and messages that we've been putting out by the Drive Alive program and Healthy Choices framework," said Earl Blacklock, manager of public affairs and communications for the GNWT Department of Transportation.

Family members and passengers are also playing a part, according to Blacklock.

"In a lot of cases it's also attributed to the people around the person who's not wearing a seatbelt," Blacklock said. "They are getting behind the programs and helping to enforce the message."

The Drive Alive program encourages motorists to abide by five rules to help get to their destination: drive according to the conditions, give driving your full attention, wear or use appropriate safety equipment, and prepare for the unexpected.

"If this becomes a trend, then everybody should celebrate," Heron said.

In 2009, there were three drowning deaths and five fatal car crashes, according to the most recent data available from the NWT Bureau of Statistics and the NWT Coroner's Office.

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