A recent survey by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety revealed some good news about Minnesota’s residents: They’re buckling up in record numbers.

According to the survey, the number of Minnesota drivers and passengers using seat belts has reached a record high of 82.1 percent, up from 79.4 percent in 2003.

Traffic safety officials believe the increase may be a factor in fewer traffic deaths this year.

So far in 2004, a 16-percent decrease in fatalities has been recorded from this time last year.

It appears that targeted law enforcement and public education are doing what they are intended to do: save lives.

People were told about enforcement periods and what to do or not do to survive a crash. Officials say they’re also confident that the message is sinking in about what kind of driving behavior will get them stopped.

We applaud the DPS and OTS for their efforts and plans to continue their enforcement efforts as a reminder to all and to reach the one in five motorists who still ignore the law.

Obviously, the repeated message is paying off.