TIRF prepares for upcoming 12th International Alcohol Interlock Symposium; releases 11th Symposium Proceedings

The Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF) is pleased to announce it will organize and host the 12th Annual International Alcohol Interlock Symposium in Palm Springs, California on September 18th – 20th, 2011.

The theme of the Symposium is integrating systems and creating a continuum of care. Featured topics include: the integration of licensing, criminal justice and treatment systems into interlock programs to better manage offender risk and allocate resources; reciprocity and harmonization across interlock programs; and, jurisdictional efforts to transition from a paper-based to electronic reporting systems as program participation grows. System integration can ensure that agencies are better positioned to share information, and improve the monitoring and tracking of offenders across agencies and jurisdictions. Other topics include international progress and research updates.

This symposia series is designed to share new research and program practices to improve the delivery of interlock programs. It is structured to facilitate the sharing of experiences and lessons learned, and to explore the different ways that jurisdictions have implemented interlock programs, the challenges that have been encountered, and the progress that is being achieved.

The symposium format includes panel presentations and discussion groups. In addition, there will be an introductory workshop for newcomers and an exhibition for vendors. A variety of leisure activities are offered in conjunction with the event to facilitate networking and dialogue among attendees.

The first recipient of the Barry Sweedler Award will be announced at the 2011 Symposium.

The 2011 Symposium website www.interlocksymposium.com is now live. Register to take advantage of the early bird deadline before May 30th. The program will be posted and updated in the coming weeks.

Alcohol Interlocks: Harmonizing Policies and Practice

TIRF is also pleased to release the proceedings of the 11th International Alcohol Interlock Symposium entitled, Alcohol Interlocks: Harmonizing Policies and Practices. The 11th International Alcohol Interlock Symposium was held in Montebello, Quebec, Canada in October 2010. This event attracted more than 130 attendees representing 17 countries.

The proceedings from the 11th Symposium contain highlights of discussion focused on harmonizing policies and practices across jurisdictions and across disciplines. It compares similarities and differences that exist, and explores opportunities for harmonization to streamline program delivery. It also examines the implementation of first offender programs and the development of benchmarks of progress.

Sponsors of the Symposium included Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Corp., Smart Start Inc., Dr�ger Safety Diagnostics, Lifesafer Interlock, Tokai-Denshi, and Keyun Technology.

About TIRF

Established in 1964, TIRF’s mission is to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries. As a national, independent, charitable road safety institute, TIRF designs, promotes, and implements effective programs and policies, based on sound research. TIRF is a registered charity and depends on grants, contracts, and donations to provide services for the public. For more information, visit www.tirf.ca.