To begin with, the Northeast Florida Community Traffic Safety Program (CTSP) launched the Wise Words safety campaign in 2018. The campaign started with a simple idea, Walt’s Wise Words, created by longtime team member Walt Duffany.
Walt built a strong legacy in traffic safety. He worked as an FDOT Lake City shop supervisor and later joined the District Two Community Traffic Safety Team (CTST). After he retired in 2015, he continued to serve others. Today, he volunteers as the Deputy Reservist Coordinator for Columbia County Fire Rescue. Before moving to Florida in 1986, he worked for the Town of Adams highway department in New York. He also served our country as a Navy veteran, including time in Vietnam.
Thank you, Walt, for your service and your impactful safety messages.
From One Message to a Movement
At first, the campaign featured a simple graphic, a car with a bumper sticker and a short Wise Words slogan. However, the campaign quickly grew. Today, it includes bold visuals, colorful graphics, and catchy phrases. District Two CTST members create every message.
Moreover, Wise Words delivers quick, easy-to-understand safety reminders for drivers. These messages focus on real risks. For example, they address distracted driving, impaired driving, tailgating, proper use of turn signals, and buckling up. In addition, the campaign expanded into other key areas like Work Zone Awareness, Occupant Protection, Safe Following Distance, Red-Light Running, and impaired driving prevention.
As a result, Wise Words continues to reach drivers with clear, memorable safety tips that support safer decisions on the road.
Share Traffic Safety Wise Words
Become a Community Traffic Safety Team Virtual Volunteer. Share Wise Words on your social media. Encourage others to make safer choices. And most importantly, tag us so we can amplify your impact.
Follow and tag:
Facebook / Instagram: @trafficsafetyteam
Pinterest / LinkedIn: @trafficsafetyfl
Now, you can help spread the message.
Together, we can turn simple words into life-saving actions.