Joe Aguayo
Truck Driver, WinCo Foods
Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) Certified
Truck Driver, WinCo Foods
Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) Certified
In September 2022 as I was driving in the northwest at night, I spotted a woman standing alone near the fog line, wearing just a beach towel with a shaved head. With no other cars or people around, my gut feeling told me something was wrong. Lacking cell service, I drove to call the authorities. Months later, I discovered she was a trafficking victim, and this experience motivated me to become more proactive in the fight against this crime.
TAT provided crucial training that has taught me the signs of human trafficking. I learned about the “Signal for Help,” involving the gesture of facing your palm outward, folding your thumb across your palm, and closing your fingers over your thumb. I also have become more vigilant at rest stops, actively looking for signs of possessive or aggressive behavior.
It has reinforced the significance of my role in combating human trafficking and serves as a constant reminder that this issue is at our back door. This recognition motivates me to remain alert and proactive in addressing potential trafficking situations. It reminds me that by making small changes, like slowing down on turnouts to see if someone is there, I can make a difference.
Always be vigilant on the road and aware of your surroundings. If you see something, say something because you never know when your actions could save somebody’s life. As drivers, since we frequently drive the same routes each day, we are more likely to recognize when something is out of the ordinary.
Industry Mascot “Safety Sammy” travels the country as a symbol of America’s most essential industry: trucking!
Industry Mascot “Safety Sammy” travels the country as a symbol of America’s most essential industry: trucking!