The US Senate just passed the Highway Bill removing the driving restrictions for repeat offenders AND providing incentive grant funding for states that require an IID for everyone convicted of DUI. The House is expected to be more contentious, but today’s vote is a huge step forward!

Virginia Senate Passes Ignition Interlock DUI Bill

The Virginia Senate has passed legislation requiring an ignition interlock for every first-time drunken driver, no matter how high the offender’s blood alcohol content registered.

Current law mandates the device only for repeat offenders or anyone registering a .15 blood alcohol level or higher. Drivers have to blow into the device, and if any alcohol is detected the car won’t start.

Democratic Sen. Don McEachin of Henrico County sponsored the bill. He said installation of the interlock device is a good way to prevent drunken drivers from committing a second offense. Opponents argued that poor people would have a tough time coming up with several hundred dollars to pay to use the device for a minimum of six months.

Related posts:

1. Virginia Leading The Way – Ignition Interlock Required After First DUI

Cincinnati, OH – LifeSafer Holding, Inc.’s Board of Directors announced this week that they unanimously appointed Craig Armstrong as the first President and Chief Executive Officer of the combined LifeSafer organization.

Mr. Armstrong joined the company as Vice President of Sales and Marketing in 2010, following the successful merger of National Interlock, Inc., Affordable Ignition Interlock, and LifeSafer Interlock Inc., in partnership with private equity firm Lineage Capital. Before joining LifeSafer, Craig held senior management positions for global leaders such as Motorola, Polaroid and LoJack.

“Craig is the right person to lead the company and carry on the LifeSafer tradition of leadership in the Ignition Interlock Industry, partnering with highway safety groups and state and federal agencies to protect America’s families from drunk drivers,” according to LifeSafer’s founder and twenty-six year industry veteran, Richard Freund.

“With Craig’s vision and proven success in implementing the company’s business plan, in coordination with the Board and professional investment managers from Lineage Capital, the company is poised to increase our leadership position in the industry providing proven ignition interlock technologies that protect the public on our roadways,” added National Interlock founder, Michael Balgord.

“I’m very excited about the future at LifeSafer. The company has a strong 20-year history as an innovator in the ignition interlock industry and continues to lead with new products utilizing camera, GPS tracking, and real-time reporting technologies. Our recently introduced Home Alcohol Monitoring Unit seems to fill a significant niche, and judging from the initial response, should create an exciting avenue to continue the growth strategy of the LifeSafer brand. We have an exceptional team working literally around the clock to achieve LifeSafer’s deeply held mission to make communities safer from impaired drivers. We help save lives and change lives every day and I’m grateful for this outstanding opportunity,” says Craig Armstrong, President/CEO of LifeSafer, Inc.

About LifeSafer

LifeSafer is the leading US manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices which ensure the sobriety of the driver, usually following the person’s arrest for drinking and driving. LifeSafer ignition Interlock devices and other alcohol monitoring technology systems are leased and serviced through a combined network of 800+ company owned and master distributor service locations in 43 states.

For more information about LifeSafer and its products, please visit www.lifesafer.com.

For more information, contact:

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Nine out of 10 Americans who participate in social events where alcohol is available believe that people should use designated drivers. The only requirement is that people plan ahead and either select one person to refrain from drinking alcohol or arrange for a safe ride home. Designating a sober driver in situations when alcohol is present is something that should always be practiced rather than risk a DUI arrest. There are actions and devices in existence to keep people from drinking and driving such as abstinence and Ignition Interlocks, but Designated Driver Programs are a smart alternative.

We all know that the Designated Driver idea typically promotes the concept of designating a sober driver, someone from your circle of friends or family that agrees in advance of the event to remain sober. However, there are community-based services out there for those who don’t normally have access to a sober driver. Some are privately funded while others are run through public-private partnerships.

These companies will actually get both you and your car home safely.  These usually work through either a ’Team Lift’ or a ’Scooter’ method. Team Lift is where two people come to where you are in their vehicle.    One drives you home in your car while the other follows in their car.  They get you home and then both ride off together in their car. The Scooter approach is where a driver arrives on a special scooter that folds up and fits into a nice, compact carrying bag.  He stows the scooter in your trunk and drives you home in your car.  Then he unpacks his scooter and rides off to his next client. Another way designated driver services can work is by membership.  These companies, both commercial and non-profit, serve the general community.

A good place to check to see if a Designated Driver Program is available in your area is http://www.drinkinganddriving.org. They keep a national list of Designated Driver Services.  You should always contact these companies before you need them to make sure you understand how your local service works.

It’s always smart to be aware of all your alternatives to driving under the influence. We regularly see the consequences of the decision to drink and drive.  A little thought in planning your night out could save you the frustration, embarrassment and financial burden of a DUI.  If you plan on drinking, LifeSafer encourages you to plan ahead.  By acting responsibly you help keep your community safer.

(source: www.drinkinganddriving.org)

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The LifeSafer FC100 - FC stands for Fuel Cell

Although semiconductors have been around longer, and may be cheaper than fuel cell units, they are also less reliable. Semiconductor units do not only react to the presence of alcohol, but also to other substances like cigarette smoke, perfume, hairspray and breath fresheners. The presence of these substances can trigger a “false positive” reading and unduly lead to a false accusation of alcohol use. These units also don’t have a long life span, rarely lasting longer than one year; and they show a wide variation in readings, especially as the units become older or get more use. Lastly semiconductor units detect only the presence of alcohol but cannot quantitatively measure an accurate BAC level. For these reasons no semiconductor device has ever been approved for evidential use (to stand-up in a court of law) by any State Law Enforcement Agencies or the U.S. Department of Transportation. Although a few states, Washington, Colorado and Oregon for example, still allow semiconductor units to be used, this is generally due to the fact that their use was “grandfathered”. Some states, such as Texas and Wisconsin, have banned the use of semi-conductor interlocks due to their poor and inaccurate performance.

Fuel cell units, on the other hand, are calibrated to provide greater accuracy and consistency in testing, are longer lasting (usually 3-5 years) and are alcohol specific in their monitoring, making them much less susceptible to false readings from the presence of other substances. For this reason virtually every new ignition interlock being placed into service is now fuel cell based, even though they cost more than the older semiconductor technology. Fuel cell units are considered the ‘gold standard’ of alcohol monitoring units, and they are the choice of professional Law Enforcement and concerned individuals who require measurement they can trust. When results really matter, the technology that is relied on is always fuel cell.

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The legislation requires someone convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) with a blood alcohol level of .08 -.15 to keep an ignition interlock device on their vehicle for the sixth months that they have a restricted driver’s license — the penalty for the first offense. The mechanism prevents a car from starting if there is alcohol in the person’s system. Supporters from the insurance industry, AAA and anti-drunken driving groups back these measures stating they will reduce DUI recidivism and save lives.

A first-time DUI offense is not typically the first time someone has driven drunk. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), by the time a typical person is arrested on their first DUI offense, that person has driven drunk 87 times without being caught.

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If you need an Ignition Interlock, LifeSafer is your best choice when it comes to getting back on the road safely and legally. LifeSafer interlock devices have been used by more than 500,000 people and are the most widely used in the U.S. today. Our network of 800+ installation and service locations is a unique organization of locally operated interlock specialists who are dedicated to you, the interlock client. Please call us toll-free at (800) 634-3077 or visit us on the web at www.LifeSafer.com.

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Getting a DUI can feel overwhelming.  Receiving a court order to install an ignition interlock system in your vehicle is actually a positive because it allows you to maintain or regain your driving privileges. For most of us, being able to drive is vital to maintaining employment and meeting family and social obligations.  LifeSafer Ignition Interlock Systems allow individuals to drive legally and continue to meet their responsibilities. This benefits the people charged with a DUI or OWI while at the same time helping to keep the roads safe for everyone. Ignition interlock devices are simple to operate and can help prevent future problems with the courts.

An ignition interlock system is a small electrical device similar in size to a cell phone. It is designed to measure the breath alcohol of the driver. If the interlock device detects breath alcohol that is higher than the set limit, the vehicle will not start. If the driver’s breath alcohol is below the limit, the vehicle will operate normally During the course of driving, periodic tests will be required of the driver to insure they remain under the limit. This random test prevents a driver from using another person’s breath to start the car, or getting drunk after the car has been started.

Past interlock technology is no match for what is available with modern alcohol specific fuel-cell interlock devices. They won’t affect your capacity to operate your car as you normally would. The devices today are tamper proof and won’t cause an undue drain on your car battery. Ignition interlock systems are becoming the norm in almost every state in the country. Many states have enacted compulsory interlock device laws.

A suspended or revoked driver’s license can be very disruptive to a person’s life and livelihood. Ignition interlock systems allow drivers to live their normal lives, and not disrupt the lives of their friends and family.

An ignition interlock system is a safe and fair system for both the driver and the public.

For more information on LifeSafer Ignition Interlock Systems please visit www.lifesafer.com or call toll-free (800) 634-3077 where our experts are standing by to answer your questions.

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The SC100 was the first ignition interlock device to meet the technical requirements published by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Association). The SC100 soon became the state of the art and most widely installed ignition interlock device in the United States used in the vehicles of Drunk Driving offenders, and LifeSafer became the market leader.

Over the past 20 years, LifeSafer has produced industry leading Interlocks and Home Alcohol Monitoring solutions using their proprietary fuel cell technology and patent-pending Positive ID tracking-tracking camera system. And now LifeSafer offers a wireless device with GPS capabilities, keeping them on the leading edge of a global industry.  

LifeSafer 20 Year Milestones:

1991 – LifeSafer Interlock Inc. was founded by Richard Freund in Cincinnati, OH.

1992 – The SC100 was the first interlock device to meet National Highway Traffic Safety Association standards.

1994 – LifeSafer launches the first electronic information reporting system for ignition interlock programs.

1998 – The FC100 Interlock Device was launched using fuel cell technology and remains the most widely used ignition interlock in the U.S. today.

2005 – LifeSafer developed a patent-pending positive ID interlock device with a target-tracking camera.

2010 – A wireless camera unit with GPS technology and real-time reporting is introduced.

2011 – LifeSafer introduces the Portable and Home Alcohol Monitoring Unit (HMU) with Positive ID target tracking camera

2011 – LifeSafer merges with its two largest distributors, Affordable Ignition Interlock and National Interlock, and now boasts 700+ Service Provider locations having served over 500,000 drunk driving offenders and saving countless lives throughout the U.S.

LifeSafer strives to partner with jurisdictions to pass new and evolving Drunk Driving legislation to help protect the public. As Richard Freund states, “We make our living protecting public safety, saving lives, and rehabilitating some of our customers – getting them back on the right track.” Richard, together with Michael Balgord (National Interlock founder) and Jerry Stanton (Affordable Ignition Interlock founder), continue to lead LifeSafer as the company innovates new anti-DUI alcohol monitoring technology and remains a well-respected leader and player in the Ignition Interlock Industry.

Happy Anniversary, LifeSafer. And thank you for the service and dedication you’ve provided over the past 20 years helping keep our communities safer.

For more information please visit LifeSafer or call toll-free (800) 634-3077.

Related posts:

1. LifeSafer Unveils New Branding Initiative
2. LifeSafer Interlock Launches the Portable and Home Alcohol Monitoring System
3. Lineage Capital Completes Investment in LifeSafer Interlock Holdings, Inc.

Alcohol Interlock Devices and Breath Alcohol

A frequent question we receive here at LifeSafer is from curious people wanting to understand how an electronic device like an Ignition Interlock measures your breath alcohol levels. It would seem like a complicated matter but is actually quite simple.

When a person consumes alcohol, that alcohol will show up in the breath because it gets absorbed from various body areas such as the mouth, throat, stomach and even the intestines. These areas then deposit the alcohol into the bloodstream. 

Alcohol is not digested after absorption, nor is it chemically changed once it enters the bloodstream. As the blood passes through the lungs, some of the alcohol crosses over membranes of the lung’s air sacs and then out into the air.  The concentration of alcohol in the air is therefore directly related to the concentration of the alcohol levels in the blood. As the alcohol from the lungs is exhaled, it can be detected and measured by an Alcohol Interlock Device.

Modern Ignition Interlock Devices like the ones manufactured by LifeSafer use an ethanol type fuel cell as a sensor. A fuel cell sensor is an electrochemical device in which alcohol reacts with a catalytic electrode surface such as platinum to generate an Electric current. This current can then be converted into an alcohol equivalent reading and be measured.

If a person has been drinking alcohol, their measurement of breath alcohol levels may or may not be higher than those allowed by individual state laws. If a person has an Ignition Interlock Device installed in their car, their breath alcohol readings will determine if they can start and properly run their motor vehicle or not.

For more information please visit LifeSafer Ignition Interlock Device or call toll-free (800) 634-3077 where our experts are standing by to answer your questions.

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1. Telit and LifeSafer make public safety a priority with wireless breath alcohol device

This week the holiday season kicks off and lasts through the New Year.  The holidays mean more parties and travel as many of us celebrate with friends and family.  Between Thanksgiving and the end of New Year’s weekend is also “DUI Season”, DUI arrests are at a high point for the year.

Thanksgiving Eve, sometimes referred to as  “Black Wednesday”, is unofficially considered the busiest bar night of the year, which means it’s also the biggest night of the year for drunk driving.  Thanksgiving weekend is the most traveled holiday period of the year with almost 90% of those traveling doing so by car.  This combined with the busiest bar night of the year is a deadly mix.

Federal traffic safety data shows that the daily death toll from drunk driving during the holiday season is significantly more than the rest of the year.   According to NHTSA between 2001-2005 an average of 36 fatalities occurred per day in the U.S. as a result of crashes involving an alcohol impaired driver.  That number increases to 45 per day during the Christmas period and jumps to 54 per day over New Year’s holiday.

Another report shows that between 1998 and 2008 there was an average of 572 deaths annually on U.S. highways during the Thanksgiving holiday, making it the most deadly four-day holiday period on American roads.  36% of those deaths were alcohol related which is an average of 51 per day.  The numbers are so high due to the increased number of cars on the road and the unusual distances driven to share the holiday with family and friends.   The National Safety Commission blames speeding and tired and/or sleepy drivers, as well as those who have imbibed, for the high number of deaths.

In addition to an increase in sobriety check points, NHTSA will be running its Holiday Season Impaired Driving Prevention “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving” from November 27 – December 11, 2011.

Their “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign will run from December 16, 2011 – January 2, 2012

For more information on these programs visit:

http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/ or http://www.stopimpaireddriving.org/index.htm

As you spend time with family and friends this Thanksgiving, please take special care during your travels. 

A copy of the NHTSA statistical analysis, “Fatalities Related to Alcohol-Impaired Driving During the Christmas and New Year’s Day Holiday Periods,” can be viewed here.

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Want to Learn What an Ignition Interlock Device is?

Then you have landed in the right place!

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In November 2006 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) launched its Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving.  This week they released their 5^th Anniversary Report to the Nation.  The report rates the nation three stars on a five-star scale (based on the average of the state’s ratings).

Each star a state earns represents a passage of a law or participation in one of the following MADD recommended countermeasures: 

• Requiring Ignition Interlocks for all Drunk Driving Offenders
• Conducting Sobriety Checkpoints
• Enhancing Penalties for DUI Child Endangerment
• Participating in No-refusal Events
• Utilizing Administrative License Revocation

Five states earned Five stars on the MADD rating scale including Arizona, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, and Utah.  On the other end of the spectrum, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Pennsylvania, Montana and Michigan had only one star each.

The report also addresses the financial cost of drunk driving estimated to be $132 billion in the U.S.

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Are you looking for the top rated Ignition Interlock Device?

LifeSafer has been the ignition interlock industry leader in the U.S. for 20 years. Get a professionally managed program with our expert guidance. You deserve knowledgeable answers to your questions and concerns. We have built our ignition interlock device business around reliable and easy to use products, and outstanding customer service that always responds to what you need and want and most importantly, when you need it.

Choose an Ignition Interlock service provider who will be nearby anywhere you go in the United States.

Our vast network of nearly a thousand Ignition Interlock Service Provider locations are here to help you get back on the road safely and legally. There’s a LifeSafer Ignition Interlock Device network service center somewhere near you.  Let us help you with your Ignition Interlock needs today – Call toll-free: (800) 634-3077.

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On Tuesday November 1, 2011 new DUI Laws go into effect in Oklahoma.  Senate bill number 529, otherwise known as the Erin Elizabeth Swezey Act , significantly strengthens consequences for drunk driving.

Erin Swezey was an Oklahoma University student who was killed by a drunk driver in 2009.  The drunk driver had previous DUI convictions, was driving the wrong way on the Turnpike, and had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.29 – more than three times the legal limit.

What’s New?

The Act strongly supports the use of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) and focuses primarily on multiple offenders and those with high BAC levels of 0.15 or higher.   In addition to combinations of fines, community service and/or treatment the following license revocation and interlock installation periods apply:

First Time Revocation – BAC <0.15 or Refused Test

6 month license revocation, but they can get driving privileges immediately with the installation of an IID.

First Time Revocation – BAC >=0.15

6 month license revocation, but they can get driving privileges immediately with the installation of an IID.  Upon conclusion of the revocation period they are required to have an IID installed for  1 ½ years  or until their license is reinstated , whichever is longer.  Up  to  a  6  month  credit  for the  required  period of  IID  use  is  available  for  those  that  install  during  the  revocation  period.

2^nd Revocation

12 month license revocation with mandatory interlock installation for the revocation period.  Upon conclusion of the revocation period they are required to have an IID installed for 3 years or until their license is reinstated, whichever is longer.  Up  to  a  12  month  credit  for the  required  period of  IID  use  is  available  for  those  that  install  during  the  revocation  period.

3^rd or Subsequent Revocation

3 year license revocation with mandatory interlock installation for the revocation period.  Upon conclusion of the revocation period , they will be required to install an IID for 5 years or until their license is reinstated, whichever is longer.  Up  to  a  3  year  credit  for the  required  period of  IID  use  is  available  for  those  that  install  during  the  revocation  period.

If an ignition interlock is required for driving privileges, the driver must receive a replacement license bearing the words “Interlock Required” on the face of the license for as long as they are required to have an ignition interlock device.

What We Like About It

• Interlocks can only work when they are installed.  According to the NHTSA between 60% and 80% of drivers with suspended licenses continue to drive.  Without the restriction of an interlock they could be driving drunk.  Long term revocations with no interlock options can lead people to taking the risk of driving on suspension which can lead to additional fines, legal issues, and possible drunk driving offenses.  Interlocks help protect everyone.  This Act allows individuals to get back on the road quickly, legally and safely so that they can maintain employment and family/societal obligations.  Multiple recent studies show that interlocks can reduce DUI recidivism by up to 90% while they are installed (Voas & Marques, 2003; Willis et al., 2005; Vezina, 2002; Tippetts & Voas, 1997; Coben & Larkin, 1999).

• Focus on hardcore drunk drivers.  In 2009, 70% of drivers involved in drunk driving fatalities had a BAC level of .15 or higher – a trend that has remained relatively unchanged for more than a decade (NHTSA/FARS, 2010). By making Ignition Interlocks driving privileges available immediately for those with high BAC levels and multiple-offenses, this Act puts an ignition interlock between them and the ability to drive after consuming alcohol, which is safer for them and the communities they live in.

• Behavioral change takes time.  This Act also takes into account that it takes time and effort to change behaviors.  Longer mandatory IID installation periods in conjunction with treatment programs for multiple-offenders starts to address the need for and support behavioral change.

In Conclusion

Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, once estimated that if widely used ignition interlocks could save as many as 9000 lives each year by preventing impaired drivers from taking the road.  An article posted on the Erin Swezey Act home page quotes Representative Jason Nelson, R-Oklahoma City as saying, “Arizona has a similar law and they’ve reduced drunk driving deaths by 46 percent.  I know we will save lives in Oklahoma as well.”   With the implementation of the Erin Swezey Act Oklahoma makes great strides in following DUI law best practices similar to states like Washington and New Mexico.  We hope more states follow their lead, because if we could cut the annual 10,000+ alcohol related deaths by 46% – it would be an amazing testimonial to just how much safer ignition interlocks make all of our roads and communities.

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Raleigh, NC – Oct. 19, 2011 – Telit Wireless Solutions, the North American technology arm of Telit Communications PLC, announced that its CC864-DUAL cellular M2M module will provide wireless connectivity for the FC100 Wireless Ignition Interlock with camera and GPS from LifeSafer, allowing law enforcement authorities to monitor DUI offenders in real time and keep drunk drivers off the road.

Updating its legacy device with cellular capabilities, LifeSafer incorporates Telit technology into its FC100 to wirelessly and securely transmit daily reports, immediately notify authorities of offenders who exceed alcohol limits, and contact emergency responders if a user attempts to circumvent the device.

Court-mandated ignition interlock programs require DUI offenders to provide a BrAC (breath alcohol content) sample below a preset limit before the vehicle can be started. With previous devices, authorities would have to wait 30 to 60 days before the DUI offender could upload monitoring information during a scheduled visit.

“By equipping the FC100 with Telit’s wireless technology, we are now able to provide law enforcement agencies with the ability to monitor DUI offenders in real-time and immediately respond to incidents, keeping both the driver and other motorists safe,” said Richard Freund, founder of LifeSafer. “Telit’s compact modules were seamlessly integrated into our existing product and provide the highly reliable cellular connectivity critical to its effectiveness.”

Enabled by the Telit CC864-DUAL module with GPS capabilities, authorities can view data instantly online with the LifeSafer Plus system, including all logged and time-stamped photographs, driver locations, BrAC levels, retest results and tampering attempts.

“LifeSafer’s interlock device demonstrates that M2M technology can make a great impact not only on the user but also contribute to the greater good of society,” said Mike Ueland, vice president and general manager of Telit Wireless Solutions North America. “This solution provides greater value and functionality for law enforcement officers in monitoring DUI offenders and incentivizes these drivers to avoid risky behavior, ultimately making the roads safer for everyone.”

With its ultra-compact design, and extended operating temperature range of -30° C to 80°C, Telit’s CC864-DUAL is the perfect platform for medium-to-high-volume M2M applications and mobile data and computing devices. In addition to other value-added features, the CC864-DUAL incorporates standalone GPS and gpsOne® capabilities for applications in mobile environments such as telematics, personal and asset tracking, as well as over-the-air maintenance and management of software in the module to protect customer investments.

Telit offers customer assistance and information exchange for device designs in the Telit Online Technical Support Forum, an open developers platform that also serves as an invaluable technical knowledge database for the entire M2M community.

Related posts:

1. LifeSafer Interlock Launches the Portable and Home Alcohol Monitoring System

Columbus, OH – LifeSafer, Inc., an Ohio-based Ignition Interlock Manufacturer, is now the sole service provider in Franklin County, Ohio’s Municipal Court to install Camera Ignition Interlocks as a mandatory requirement for all drunk-driving (OVI) offenders declared by the Court financially unable to pay the full cost of the program. This program allows continuous alcohol monitoring of indigent OVI offenders and prevents them from getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

“I’m pleased that Franklin County Municipal Court and LifeSafer are partnering on this important effort to make our streets and neighborhoods safer while reducing drunk driving,” said Mayor Michael B. Coleman. This is not a program Franklin County takes lightly… LifeSafer was up against several other competitors to be the sole ignition interlock supplier for the indigent driver. This program also supports rehabilitation programs but the bulk of the funds are expected to be used for interlocks over the three year term.

The Ohio Legislature raised OVI fines and license reinstatement fees and re-allocated a portion of those funds paid into the State Treasury for Counties to subsidize the use of alcohol ignition interlocks and other alcohol monitoring technology and treatment for indigent OVI offenders. “This program with LifeSafer holds the indigent offender accountable without putting the public at risk. It will not only improve public safety, but will also help the indigent driver to remain employed during the probationary period,” states Chief Probation Officer, Michael Roth.

“We are proud to have been selected by Franklin County Municipal Court as part of their bold and innovative step to slow down the folks reoffending by continuing to drive under suspension and under the influence,” said Richard Freund, President and Founder of LifeSafer. “Our Camera Interlock technology will not accept a breath-test to start the vehicle unless we get your picture blowing into the device in the driver’s seat, so it is not easy to circumvent. And the device can be programmed to require the person to take in-driveway breath-tests multiple times a day whether they operate the vehicle or not. These devices will help keep the offender sober and support abstinence throughout the treatment process.”

About LifeSafer

LifeSafer is the leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices in the United States that are employed in the vehicles of DUI-convicted offenders. LifeSafer Interlock devices and alcohol monitoring technology systems are distributed through company owned operations and master distributor service providers that are solely dedicated to handling LifeSafer equipment in 43 states through 700+ service locations. For more information on LifeSafer and its products please visit www.lifesafer.com.

For more information, contact:

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CINCINNATI, OH – LifeSafer Interlock, an industry pioneer and leading manufacturer of ignition interlock devices, which have been proven to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with drunk driving, announced its plan to rebrand the company to simply LifeSafer® and unveiled a new logo, tag line and visual identity as part of the branding initiative. Capitalizing on 20 years of developing accurate and trusted ignition interlock devices and monitoring systems, the new name better positions the company for the future.

The new logo consists of the LifeSafer name, the tagline “People and Technology for Safer Communities” and a graphic element representing a positive path for LifeSafer clients with a subtle nod to the roads the company has helped keep safer since 1991. The new visual identity will be applied to all marketing and communications materials including the LifeSafer website. The affiliated distribution websites for National Interlock and Affordable Ignition Interlock will be integrated later this fall, featuring improved functionality, a robust service provider locator and additional customer service tools for clients.

“This is the perfect time to introduce a new logo and branding,” said Craig Armstrong, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for LifeSafer. “It publicly demonstrates the unification of the company and also aligns with our strategy moving forward. Our new branding is bolder, brighter and more positive. It really represents the positive effect we have on people and communities every day.”

“The company’s new tagline ‘People & Technology for Safer Communities’ tells you everything you need to know about LifeSafer. Our key strengths are our people and our products. We are known for our accurate and reliable devices and monitoring, but what really sets us apart is our people and the outstanding service and customer care they provide. Every day our people use LifeSafer technology to make a real difference in individuals’ lives, and help make the communities they live in safer for everyone,” said Jerry Stanton, Founder of Affordable Ignition Interlock.

“In January we announced our partnership with Lineage Capital that allowed us to combine LifeSafer Interlock, National Interlock and Affordable Ignition Interlock into one company to better position us for accelerated growth. This is the logical next step as we integrate the companies and really start moving forward together as a unified force,” said Richard Freund, founder of LifeSafer.

“LifeSafer launched the new Portable and Home Alcohol Monitoring Unit in June, our first non-interlock product. By rebranding to LifeSafer, we are poised for growth beyond our core ignition interlock product line,” said Mike Balgord, Founder of National Interlock.

Unveiled last week to employees, the rebranding will be rolled-out across all of the Company’s operations over the coming months. The change will be inclusive of LifeSafer Interlock and all of its affiliated distribution units – National Interlock Systems, Inc., Affordable Ignition Interlock, Interlock Group of Florida, and LifeSafer Interlock of Texas – which will begin operating under the new brand immediately. The new visual identity will also extend to external LifeSafer Master Distributors that choose adopt the branding platform, thereby presenting a more cohesive and consistent identity to the marketplace.

About LifeSafer

LifeSafer is the leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices in the United States that are employed in the vehicles of DUI-convicted offenders. LifeSafer Interlock devices and alcohol monitoring technology systems are distributed through company owned operations and master distributor service providers that are solely dedicated to handling LifeSafer equipment in 42 states through 700+ service locations. For more information on LifeSafer and its products please visit www.lifesafer.com.

For more information, contact:
Debbi Markland
LifeSafer, Inc.
dmarkland@lifesafer.com
800.531.0006, ext. 117

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1. Lineage Capital Completes Investment in LifeSafer Interlock Holdings, Inc.

CINCINNATI, OH – LifeSafer Interlock Holdings, Inc. (“LifeSafer”), an industry pioneer and leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices, which have been proven to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with drunk driving, has launched the new LifeSafer^® Portable & Home Monitoring Unit (HMU).

“Our proven alcohol monitoring technologies have been used by more than 500,000 people over the past 20 years. With our new HMU, we’re taking this technology and combining it with a camera and our patent-pending target tracking. Target tracking puts the camera in control to ensure that we get a picture of the person taking the test. Using this with the in-home unit allows us to make sure the HMU technology rises to the level of integrity of the LifeSafer interlock system, in that it cannot be easily circumvented.” states Richard Freund, President of LifeSafer.

This type of Device is desirable for offenders who do not own a vehicle, are under hard suspension, are under house arrest, are out on bond, pending DWI/DUI charges, or require home and work monitoring in conjunction with an ignition interlock device. The LifeSafer HMU offers the ability to obtain evidential breath-alcohol test results with Positive ID to ensure compliance with the terms of an offender’s abstinence program.

Key features of the Device include: 

• Alcohol-specific fuel cell – accurate measure of breath alcohol content (BAC)
• Ease of use – just plug it in and blow when requested by the device
• Portable and discreet design allows offender to be monitored daily anywhere – in and outside of the
  home and on the job
• Daily, pre-programmed testing times are determined by the monitoring authorities. The HMU can also accept a test anytime the user desires
• Weekly or monthly scheduled downloading and reporting of all activity at 700+ convenient LifeSafer service locations
• Efficient test data reporting through the LifeSafer PLUS reporting system with secure and easy access to all Photographs and Testing Data
• Patent-pending Target Tracking – ensures positive photo ID

LifeSafer technology has always had duel benefits – for jurisdictions and for end-users. From an end-users’ perspective the HMU provides less (or no) jail time, which helps them get their lives back together – and keeps them productive members of society. From the judicial point of view, the HMU gives them the ability to monitor offenders in the home and actually transfer the cost of doing that onto the offenders, thereby saving millions of dollars for the judicial system and ultimately the taxpayers.

“One of the advantages of our system is not only that it saves millions of dollars for the jurisdictions, but it is also less money than existing home monitoring technologies that are currently in use,” states Craig Armstrong, VP of Sales and Marketing at LifeSafer. The daily cost of the HMU is less than a drink in a bar per day… making the LifeSafer HMU affordable for long-term use, as a condition of probation – rather than a short-term alternative to incarceration.

At LifeSafer, the focus is both mission and business. As Richard Freund says, “We make our living protecting public safety, saving lives, and rehabilitating some of our customers – getting them back on the right track.”

About LifeSafer

LifeSafer is the leading manufacturer of ignition interlocks in the US that installed in the vehicles of DUI offenders. LifeSafer Interlocks and alcohol monitoring technology systems are distributed through company owned operations and master distributor service providers that are solely dedicated to handling LifeSafer. For more information please visit www.lifesafer.com.

For more information, contact:

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BOSTON–Lineage Capital, LLC today announced it has completed an investment in LifeSafer Interlock Holdings, Inc., (“LifeSafer”) an industry pioneer and leading manufacturer of ignition interlock devices used in the automobiles of convicted drunk driving offenders. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, LifeSafer manufactures, distributes, and services products that prevent a vehicle from being operated if the vehicle’s driver has consumed alcohol.

“LifeSafer is the industry leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices, which have been proven to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with drunk driving”

Lineage invested equity from its $157 million fund, while Northstar Capital LLC provided debt financing and an equity co-investment to support the transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.

“LifeSafer is the industry leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices, which have been proven to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with drunk driving,” said Mark Sullivan, a Partner at Lineage Capital. “We believe there are significant opportunities to grow and expand the company’s business by working closely with our management partners at LifeSafer.”

Under its new investment and ownership structure, LifeSafer’s industry leading manufacturing, product development and third party distribution operations and two affiliated distribution units – National Interlock Systems, Inc. and Affordable Ignition Interlock – will be combined into one company to better position the company for accelerated growth. As part of the combination, LifeSafer has recruited three new senior executives to augment the company’s existing leadership team. The companies will operate as LifeSafer Interlock Holdings, Inc.

“Lineage Capital’s distinctive investment model supporting owner-managed businesses, coupled with the firm’s seasoned experience in growing companies, will enable LifeSafer to pursue the next chapter in its evolution as the pioneer and leading provider of ignition interlock devices,” said Richard Freund, founder of LifeSafer.

“The nation’s law enforcement agencies make 1.2 million DUI-related arrests each year. With more states mandating the use of interlock devices, we are poised to benefit from growing demand for LifeSafer’s products,” said Michael Balgord, President of National Interlock.

”Lineage Capital’s willingness to provide significant value-added support, combined with their unique investment model allowing us to retain control of our board of directors, were attractive incentives to join with our new partners and take the next step in positioning our company for further growth,” said Jerry Stanton, President of Affordable Ignition Interlock.

Freund, Balgord, and Stanton, who worked closely over the last two decades to grow their businesses, will continue to lead LifeSafer’s newly-consolidated leadership team and hold substantial ownership stakes in the Ohio-based company.

White Oak Partners introduced Lineage Capital to LifeSafer and provided financial advisory services as part of the transaction.

About LifeSafer

LifeSafer is the leading manufacturer and distributor of ignition interlock devices in the United States that are employed in the vehicles of DUI-convicted offenders. For more information please visit www.lifesafer.com.

About Lineage Capital

Lineage Capital invests exclusively in owner-managed businesses. With its unique partnership approach, Lineage Capital provides significant liquidity to committed business owners while enabling them to simultaneously retain operating and board control and access growth capital for their companies. The firm invests in high quality, lower middle market businesses with more than $4 million of EBITDA and backs management teams that desire a value-added partner to facilitate their future growth and success. More information about Lineage Capital can be found at www.lineagecap.com.

Contacts

For Lineage:

Kelly Holman, 212.209.3844
Kelly.Holman@backbaycommunications.com
or
Jen Dowd, 212.209.3844
Jen.Dowd@backbaycommunications.com

For LifeSafer

Debbi Markland

dmarkland@lifesafer.com

800.531.0006, ext. 117

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