2010 news releases

Current and archival news releases for major SGI CANADA announcements, decisions, projects or campaigns.

Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation launches second phase of annual public safety campaign

November 8, 2010

Saskatchewan’s deer herd is on the move. Specifically called the Rut, both species of deer indigenous to the province are approaching the six week breeding season that peaks about the end of November. Because deer are actively seeking others of their kind, more and more deer will be crossing the highways.

On average each year in Saskatchewan there are over 12,000 vehicle collisions with wild animals, primarily deer and moose. Last year alone, six people were killed and 343 people were injured in wildlife collisions. With these statistics in mind, The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) is again appealing to motorists to be more alert while driving through areas that deer inhabit. The months of October, November and December represent the highest number of collisions with wildlife throughout the entire year.

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, with continued financial support from SGI, is once again increasing its efforts to make people more aware of the problem. An Educational Awareness Campaign, similar to previous years, was launched by the Federation in June of this year. The second phase is being launched to coincide with the Rut.

“We are hopeful that this province–wide, public safety campaign called SLOW DOWN AND SAVE A BUCK will be successful from an awareness standpoint,” said Darrell Crabbe, Executive Director of the SWF. “While numbers of deer and moose continue to increase, so do the numbers of drivers. We know that collisions with wildlife will continue to happen – that’s why we want to remind drivers to be more alert while driving during these coming months.”

The 2010 SLOW DOWN AND SAVE A BUCK awareness campaign is the 14th annual message being launched by the Federation with help from SGI and the Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC). The campaign includes highway billboards, radio and television PSAs, and informational dinner placemats distributed to select restaurants and to Federation special events across the province. An eye-catching graphic and message has been wrapped around an STC bus and trailer to help promote the campaign.

About SGI CANADA

SGI CANADA has been in business for more than 60 years, selling property and casualty insurance in seven Canadian provinces. It operates as SGI CANADA in Saskatchewan; SGI CANADA Insurance Services Limited in Alberta and Manitoba; Coachman Insurance Company in Ontario; and the Insurance Company of Prince Edward Island (ICPEI) in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is the province's self-sustaining auto insurance fund.