RADIO SERVICE

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 450, 7 February 1933, Page 2

RADIO SERVICE

AID TO THE DRIVER The radio, which lately has enhanced the motor car's inner harmony and, at the same time, proved a valuabie aid in apprehending eriminals, recently had to answer a question concerning the advisability of its use (states a writer in the New York Times). The question was whether the sound of a radio in a car tended to cause accidents (presumably by distracting or confusing the driver). The answer, delayed by th'e Heinl News Service from Harold A. Lafount of the Federal Radio Commission, is to th'e effect that, far from doing any such thing, the automobile radio is "a decided advantage" to driver and occupants on a long and monotonous trip. Furthermore, it not only makes driving more enjoyable but effectively dispels that drowsiness induced in the operator by mile upon wearying mile of unbroken rolling. In that respeet, be it noted in passing, it is much like a neighbour's radio; it keeps him awake. It is interesting' to note, too, that radio has proved of considerable service in broadcasting th'e gospel of safety on the highways. In a communication to the Radio Commission the American Automobile Association, through its executive vice-president, Mr. Ernest N. Smith, has acknowledged this, declaring that numerous letters have been received from motoring members appreeiating the way in which' radio stations were helping to promote safety. Mr. Smith added: "While there are, of eourse, many factors involved in the downward trend of motor fatalities this year — the first drop in the history of the automobile — there can be no doubt that the broadcasting of •safety messages by radio has been most h'elpful in encouraging careful driving.