Every six days in North America a tow truck operator is killed while working on the side of the road. It’s a disturbing statistic that highlights the dangers of the job.

“You have to have your head on a swivel. You have to watch your surroundings and watch the traffic flow,” Rosetown Towing’s Owner Operator Jamie Kemp shared. “I myself, was hit in 2006. The motorist never slowed down, and I broke my leg. Since that I've been super aware of what's going on.”

Thanks to his own experience, and concern for his crew, Jamie decided it was important to be part of the Burgers and Blue Lights event that is partially organized by the Roadside Responders Association of Saskatchewan. The events aim is to raise a few funds for the ‘Spirit Ride Memorial’ and raise awareness about slowing down when passing work vehicles on the side of the highway.

By slowing down just a little, lives could be saved.

“If you see the lights up ahead, that's to make you aware that something happening. Just slow to 60 km/hour, over into the other lane if you can. Give us some workspace, some room to work. If you have ever had a semi pass at a 60, let alone 100, it blows the hat right off your head. People don't pay attention. By the time you realize it’s time to slow down it can be too later,” Kemp said.

slow to 60 sign

Along with the food, a raffle was held at the event. And attendees were encouraged to talk with tow truck operators, ask questions about the equipment, and put a few names to faces.

“Turnout has been great. Saskatoon sent a couple company tow trucks out our way. We even had a fella from Edmonton come this way. He was headed home from another event and made a sideline detour to come here and stop in.”

Along with the tow trucks, the Rosetown Fire Department had a few pieces of equipment out for the event, as did the local EMT service. And the A&W Root Bear was also on hand.