Police Chief David Rausch joined former Knoxville Mayor Victor Ashe, former Chiefs of Police Phil Keith and Sterling Owen, and Safety City Director Vicki Dagnan to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Safety City. Two high school students who were from the first group (while they were in 2nd grade) to participate in the program were also present.

Safety City provides an early education program for elementary school children. The program teaches children about vehicular, pedestrian, bicycle, and fire safety.

Chief Rausch said since Safety City first opened its doors in 2001, more than 111,000 children and their parents have participated in numerous personal safety programs offered throughout the year. Kindergartners through fourth graders from twelve (12) area counties have benefited from the safety programs offered at Safety City.

Chief Rausch said, "Students have consistently averaged a double-digit increase in their scores on post-visit safety tests administered by their teachers. The increase in the student's safety knowledge is a direct result of the hands-on method of instruction offered at Safety City."


Safety City provides education programs within a child-size setting complete with buildings, paved streets and sidewalks, working traffic signals and traffic signs. Students receive classroom instruction in basic pedestrian, vehicular, bicycle and fire safety. Then, students are able to practice and demonstrate their safety skills in participatory activities on the Safety City site. Participatory instruction includes pedestrian exercises, traffic activities through driving child-size vehicles along with bicycle and fire skills.

Chief Rausch said, "The skills taught at Safety City empower children with the knowledge to avoid accidents while promoting good safety habits. Teaching children at an early age prepares a solid foundation that each child will utilize throughout their lifetime."

A special proclamation from Mayor Daniel Brown was presented naming the day as "Safety City Day" in the City of Knoxville.

Mayor Daniel Brown said, "One of the most important responsibilities of an adult is to teach children how to remain safe while walking along our streets, operating a bicycle or riding in a vehicle. Child injuries and deaths can be reduced through the invaluable lessons learned at Safety City."

A special tree was planted in honor of the event.

Additionally a plaque honoring the 10 year anniversary was presented.