`SAFE AND SOBER' PUSHES SEAT BELTS AND DRIVING SOBER

Another effort to promote safe driving is the "Show Me Safe and Sober Campaign" of the Missouri Division of Highway Safety. There are two goals: By 1997 the aim is to eliminate alcohol-related fatalities by under-age drivers in the state and to increase seat belt use by Missourians to 80 percent.

The two-year effort is part of a national campaign with a goal of reducing alcohol-related fatalities to 43 percent and to increase seat belt use to 75 percent. If it succeeds, some 3,000 lives will have been saved nationwide.

Currently, seat belt use by motorists behind the steering wheel in Missouri is around 40 percent -- much higher than a decade ago, but still far below the state law-mandated requirement that everyone in the front seat of a vehicle (other than pickups) to wear seat belts. In addition, children under 4 years old are required to be in restraint seats whether they are in the front or back seat of a car.

It is encouraging to know that motorists in Cape Girardeau are already at the 75 percent level of seat belt use set as the national goal. Police department officials believe the Missouri goal for seat belt use can to met or even exceeded.

This effort is fueled by the desire to put an end to needless deaths -- fatalities caused by drinking and driving. During the holiday season it is particularly important to emphasize the use of designated drivers after parties. Or take a taxi home.