OTTAWA, ON, June 17, 2008 - Losing his right hand in a machinery accident when he was three years old has given Wesley Mustard, 8, of Anola, Manitoba, a special interest in spreading The War Amps PLAYSAFE message.

He is doing just that in a video titled PLAYSAFE in Manitoba (2 minutes), the newest addition to The War Amps Ambassador Series.  It highlights Wesley’s  role as a Safety Ambassador as he rides aboard The War Amps award-winning PLAYSAFE float and spreads the safety message through presentations.  He also spreads the message in a nationally-aired War Amps public service announcement with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

PLAYSAFE in Manitoba has been distributed to regular and community channels across Manitoba and can also be viewed on The War Amps Web site.

As a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, Wesley receives assistance with the cost of artificial limbs, counselling and attends the annual Western CHAMP Seminar.

War Amps CEO Cliff Chadderton, who produced the Ambassador Series, created PLAYSAFE in 1978 when it became apparent that many children enrolling in CHAMP had lost limbs in accidents while at play.  Through parades, safety presentations, videos, public service messages and productions like the Ambassador Series, CHAMP youngsters act as Safety Ambassadors and encourage other children to PLAYSAFE!  This year marks the 30th anniversary of this innovative program.

The War Amps PLAYSAFE float and CHAMP Safety Ambassadors will be appearing in parades across Manitoba to warn kids that accidents can happen anywhere.