Truck drivers who want to join the Highway Watch program but lack the time to attend a training class can now complete the required training on their own schedule with a new DVD and enrollment kit. With most of its funding supplied by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security, Highway Watch calls on truck drivers and other professional transportation workers to report potential security and safety threats.
The program's training teaches drivers to recognize potential terrorist activities, which can be reported to a single Highway Watch call center. Special analysts evaluate all incoming information and determine whether it should then be forwarded to law enforcement.
The new DVD, which was released on November 11, provides a self-paced course that takes about one hour to complete. The enrollment kit also includes a training manual, an application form and a stamped, self-addressed envelope to return the paperwork. Once drivers have completed the course and application, they are issued unique ID numbers that are used to verify their status as Highway Watch members when they call the hotline.
To date, Highway Watch has trained more than 180,000 truck drivers, state DOT workers and mass transit workers. In addition to keeping an eye out for potential terrorist threats and unsafe highway conditions, members hauling hazardous materials can satisfy the new Federal HM232 general awareness regulation by completing either the classroom or DVD training.
www.highwaywatch.com