The month of October serves as a reminder to prioritize pedestrian safety and provides an opportunity to educate and empower individuals to make safer choices while walking. Pedestrian safety is a critical issue that affects everyone in the community. By prioritizing pedestrian safety, we can create neighborhoods where individuals can walk and commute with confidence and peace of mind.
Pedestrian Safety Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of pedestrian safety and the intentional steps we can take to prevent accidents and injuries. Join us as we provide valuable tips and resources to enhance pedestrian safety throughout the year.
Tips for Pedestrian Safety:
a) Be Visible: Whether you are walking during the day or at night, it is crucial to be visible to motorists. Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions, and carry a flashlight when walking at night.
b) Use Designated Crosswalks: Always use designated crosswalks when crossing the street. Look for traffic signals and wait for the “walk” signal before crossing. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping off the curb.
c) Avoid Distractions: Stay focused while walking and avoid distractions such as texting, listening to music at high volumes, or using headphones. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and be able to hear approaching vehicles.
d) Walk Facing Traffic: If there are no sidewalks available, walk facing traffic. This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and react accordingly. Stay as far to the side as possible and make yourself visible to drivers.
e) Teach Children about Pedestrian Safety: Educate children about pedestrian safety from a young age. Teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, to use crosswalks, and to be aware of their surroundings while walking.
References
Brittany Jones. Safe Routes Partnership. (n.d.). https://www.saferoutespartnership.org/blog/advocating-child-pedestrian-safety-during-national-pedestrian-safety-month
Pedestrian safety. NHTSA. (n.d.). https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety#:~:text=Follow%20the%20rules%20of%20the,streets%20at%20crosswalks%20or%20intersections.
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