Be Safe: Be Seen

Now that the days are short and the rains have come, pedestrians need to change their outfits.  Nearly half of all car vs. pedestrian collisions happen between October and January.  The average is about a thousand in those four months.  Four fifths happen in intersections.  Why?  Because it’s dark out, and the pedestrians can’t be seen. 

Here’s how to reduce the chance of being hit by a car:

·         Always cross at intersections – with the light if there is one.

·         Look up from your phone and turn off any earbuds when crossing the road.

·         Make eye contact with drivers before you cross.  Make sure they see you (maybe they’re driving distracted).

·         If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic. 

·         Wear reflective clothing – even wrist bands (put one on your wrist and one on the opposite ankle).

·         Put reflective tape on the cuffs and waist of your coat.  Don’t forget your backpack and umbrella.  It’s cheap and lasts a long time.

·         Attach a small reflector to your front zipper and one to your back.  They’re cheap at the dollar store.

·         If you’re walking a dog, put reflectors halfway along the leash, and on the dog’s collar.

·         Wear bright colours: yellow, orange, white, pink (not red – it looks black at night).

·         Carry a small flashlight if you’re on a poorly-lit street.  Swing it as you walk.

·         If you use an umbrella, make sure it is reflective or brightly-coloured.  Attach reflective tape or a small reflector if your umbrella is dark.

Can you see the person on the right of the picture? Do you think a driver doing 50 kmh would, in time to swerve?

It’s a Clearly sensible idea to make yourself more visible.  A couple of dollars per year might save your life, or that of your child.