NO REGRETS PROGRAM LAUNCHED IN SASKATCHEWAN SCHOOLS

Released on September 21, 2006

SGI has joined forces with SMARTRISK to help reduce unintentional fatalities and injuries among our province's youth by introducing the No Regrets program to Saskatchewan schools.

SMARTRISK is a national, non-profit organization with an established track record of designing and delivering injury prevention initiatives to youth. The SMARTRISK No Regrets program seeks to harness the power of youth by motivating youth leaders to realize they can help to reduce the tragic loss of life and injuries sustained by their generation. No Regrets has five key messages – Buckle Up, Look First, Wear the Gear, Get Trained and Drive Sober.

"We are excited about introducing the No Regrets program to Saskatchewan schools," Minister responsible for SGI Glenn Hagel said. "Through effective strategies, events and activities, youth leaders will be able to educate peers about the positive choices they can make to reduce the risk of injury."

Youth leaders, along with staff advisors, from Vanier Collegiate, Moose Jaw; Assiniboia Composite High School, Assiniboia; and Balcarres Community School, Balcarres are being trained in Regina today to develop and deliver their own school-wide injury prevention programs. Students from Humboldt Collegiate, Humboldt; Carpenter High School, Meadow Lake; Mount Royal Collegiate, Saskatoon and John Paul Collegiate, North Battleford have already received the training. Additional schools are in discussions to join the program.

During the 2003-2004 school year two Saskatchewan schools – A.E. Peacock High School in Moose Jaw and Holy Rosary Catholic High School in Lloydminster – were involved in the pilot of the No Regrets program. An extensive evaluation of the pilot program proved the No Regrets program was successful in altering behaviour, attitude and perception toward dangerous situations.

"Injury kills more young people in Saskatchewan than all other causes combined. SMARTRISK No Regrets harnesses the power of peers to help young people understand that most of these injuries are preventable. We're thrilled that SGI is helping us reach thousands of young people with these important messages," SMARTRISK president and CEO Dr. Robert Conn said.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Kim Hambleton SGI Regina Phone: (306) 775-6907 Email: khambleton@sgi.sk.ca