Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Memorial Day weekend safety

For Immediate Release: May 22, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire released the following statement today urging Washingtonians and travelers to follow common-sense safety practices this holiday weekend:

�Memorial Day weekend is a time to reflect, relax and enjoy what our great state of Washington offers. With so many of us headed outdoors and on our highways, I urge everyone to take care in their travels and activities this weekend.

�I, along with the Washington State Patrol, urge you to buckle up, familiarize yourself with your route, plan for longer travel times, and observe the speed limit and all rules of the road. Extra State Patrol officers will be on the roads this weekend to ensure public safety.

�In the wonderful parks of Washington, please use vigilance when enjoying campfires. We are entering wildfire season and all precautions apply. Safety officials also urge utmost caution while swimming and boating in lakes and to stay out of rivers swollen by snowmelt.

�Enjoy your weekend with family and friends, and be safe.�