Seatbelts save lives.

That’s the message the Marion County Sheriff’s Office is trying to convey as they join with the Iowa State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies across the state for the Hi-Five Program. Extra patrols will be out on Marion County roadways this weekend with a goal of educating the public, preventing serious injuries, and saving lives.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office says safety belts have proven to reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent and by 60 percent in pickups, SUV’s, and mini-vans. They’re urging drivers to drive safely and remember to buckle up and thoroughly secure children in federally approved safety seats.