News & Events

Janus Donates Masks to EESF’s Safe-T Rider Program

March 18, 2009

Masks of program’s Safe T Rider mascot to be used in children’s education – Hauppauge, N.Y. (March 18, 2009).

In support of the educational programs of the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF), Janus Elevator Products has donated nine masks of Safe T Rider, the cartoon mascot used by the foundation to educate children about elevator and escalator safety. Safe-T Rider is a character developed by the EESF to teach young children, one of the most at risk groups for injury, safety rules for riding on elevators, escalators and moving walks.

The rapping cartoon cat is featured in interactive videos, on program materials and makes classroom visits to educate children in person. The masks will be used as part of the costume worn by EESF volunteers who give the classroom presentations as “Safe T Rider.”

The masks were designed and made by Janus Product Manager, Jonathan Latham, who has been sculpting and making masks for over 20 years. He first created a sculpture of the lovable cat’s face, then cast it in plaster. Once the cast was made, he was able to use it to create multiple latex masks. Each mask was hand painted and finished with Safe T Rider’s signature fur and goatee.

“Janus applauds the work of the EESF,” said Latham. “As a non-profit, the organization depends on the support of our industry; these masks are just one more way Janus can help them increase safety for children.”

The Safe-T Rider program has educated over 4 million children, parents and teachers since its inception. The EESF also offers educational programs for seniors, another at risk group, and promotes safety to the public at large with National Elevator Escalator Safety Awareness Week each November.