TRAFFIC CONTROL CLASS JUNE / 2006

Traffic direction signals are usually taken for granted until they are not functioning. This was very evident last year during Hurricane Wilma. In an effort to insure the safety of our motorist during a disaster or severe hurricane, a plan was adopted by the Wilton Manors Police Department to assist our officers by having CERT (Citizen Emergency Response Team) members and City staffers certified in Traffic Control and Direction.

Shawn Perez, wife of Chief Richard Perez, volunteered her services to assist the Police Department to achieve this goal. Mrs. Perez is an FDLE certified Police Instructor with over 20 years experience. On June 22, 2006, Mrs. Perez conducted a four hour training block which consisted of classroom work, and several hours of hands on traffic direction. A group of 16 volunteers were taken to the intersection of N.E. 21st Court and Wilton Drive at 10:00 AM to direct traffic. With their neon reflective vest and whistles, the volunteers directed traffic, assisted pedestrians and stopped traffic for emergency vehicles. All of the volunteers did an awesome job and were certified in Traffic Control and Direction.

Having the VIPs (Volunteers In Policing) and City Staffers available to free up sworn officers at intersections during post storm recovery will be a tremendous benefit for the Police Department and the citizens. This is just another outstanding example of the Wilton Manors Police Department’s Community Policing philosophy of a partnership with the community to solve problems.