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June 1, 2026
Secure Your Load for Safer Roads campaign returns with giveaways
The Kitsap County Solid Waste Division is once again partnering with the statewide Secure Your Load for Safer Roads campaign to help residents properly secure cargo and prevent dangerous debris on local roads. Throughout June, we're giving away free cargo nets and ratchet straps, while supplies last.
Unsecured vehicle loads remain a major safety issue across Washington. In 2025, unsecured loads contributed to 324 crashes and 13 injuries statewide. Debris falling from vehicles also accounts for nearly 40% of roadside litter.
Locally, Kitsap 911 received 430 calls last year reporting debris on county roads, including tires, ladders, lumber, buckets, and loose equipment. Each item reported had the potential to cause a serious collision.
Driving with an unsecured vehicle load is illegal
Washington law requires vehicle loads to be properly secured. Fines for unsecured loads can range from $50 to $5,000, with higher penalties possible if debris causes injury, property damage, or a collision.
Kitsap County waste facilities also charge a $10 unsecured load fee to customers arriving with improperly secured cargo. Since 2023, the County has collected more than $16,000 in unsecured load fees, which helps fund roadside litter cleanup efforts.
Tips for securing your vehicle load
Before driving, remember to:
- Secure items with straps, nets, or tarps.
- Tie down large items directly to the vehicle or trailer.
- Cover loose or lightweight materials.
- Double-check your load before leaving.
- Avoid overloading your vehicle.
- Secure tools and equipment, not just garbage or recyclables.
Even short trips can become dangerous if cargo shifts or falls onto the roadway.
“We’re encouraging everyone to take a few extra minutes to properly secure their vehicle and trailer loads before driving,” said Sarah Champ, coordinator of this year’s campaign. “Even if you’re only traveling a short distance, unsecured cargo can quickly become a serious safety hazard. Talk to your friends, family, and coworkers. Make sure they don't hit the road without first securing their cargo properly.”
 Law enforcement patrols and education efforts
State troopers will conduct emphasis patrols across Washington during three consecutive weekends in June. On June 5 and June 11, 2026, a Deputy with the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office will provide education at Olympic View Transfer Station.
Free cargo net and ratchet strap giveaways
Drivers can pick up free cargo-securing equipment at the following events while supplies last:
Additionally, outreach staff will educate drivers at Kitsap County garbage and recycling facilities on select dates throughout June.
Secure Your Load Day proclaimed in Kitsap County
The Kitsap Board of County Commissioners has proclaimed June 6, 2026, as Secure Your Load Day in Kitsap County to raise awareness about roadway safety and honor those impacted by unsecured vehicle loads.
Throughout June and July, Kitsap County will share educational content and campaign resources using the hashtag #SecureYourLoadWA.
See dangerous debris on the road?
Call 911 if you see:
- a dangerous unsecured load while driving.
- something fall off a vehicle that could cause a crash or injure someone.
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Contact information
Kitsap County Public Works, Solid Waste Division, 360.337.5777 or solidwaste@kitsap.gov
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