Cumberland Trace Elementary was the third and final school visited in Bowling Green by Ol’ Blue, USA. The “Big Wheels, Little Kids”© programs were presented to nearly 500 students during the afternoon of Tuesday, March 16.

Warren County Sheriff’s Deputy Freddie Brown (background) stands near his white cruiser and watches RJ question the student driver in ‘Ol’ Blue’ about sight limitations. Kentucky Vehicle Enforcement Officer Jeff Jewell stands near his cruiser in preparation for the vehicle weight comparisons segment of the program where ‘Ol’ Blue’s 80,000 pounds are compared to the cruiser’s 4,000 pounds. The afternoon events were briefly interrupted by another large vehicle requiring special safety adherences - a trash truck.

Teachers and law enforcement officers when assisting students in and out of ‘Ol’ Blue’ must follow stringent guidelines. A special event, general liability insurance, is also carried by Ol’ Blue, USA for these educational events and safety team members must meet specific qualifications and requirements.

“Big Wheels, Little Kids” school visits routinely resolve the curiosity of adults and captures children’s attention because of their love of big trucks. Program attendees are given an up close view of sight and braking limitations, maneuverability and weight considerations, and the need for safety education around large vehicles. The program addresses safety issues while in passenger vehicles, on bicycles and as pedestrians, and it enhances respect for law enforcement and their goal in the community.