Watch out for police officers and firefighters manning crosswalks this week in Richmond.
Pedestrian safety is at the top of their agenda and they will be out in force at busy crosswalks on Thursday, highlighting the dangers often ignored by people using the intersections.
In 2011, Richmond had five fatal pedestrian collisions at different locations throughout the city and there have already been two fatalities this year. While each collision had its own unique set of circumstances, pedestrian error has been a contributing factor.
And with a variety of weather conditions during late winter and early spring, coupled with reduced daylight hours, the emergency services want to wake up pedestrians and cyclists to the possibilities of an accident waiting to happen.
They are partnering with ICBC this spring and fall in the Pedestrian Road Safety Campaign in an effort to save lives and make the community a safer place.
"Pedestrian safety has always been a priority for Richmond RCMP," said Supt. Renny Nesset. "On Feb. 23, we'll be out on the streets alongside ICBC's Road Safety Team and Richmond Fire-Rescue.
"Richmond's high volume foot traffic areas will be targeted, and we'll be providing pedestrians with safety tips and reflective armbands in order to increase visibility in the dark."
This targeted enforcement initiative is just one of many steps taken by Richmond RCMP in an effort to prevent collisions, injuries and fatalities. In the past, pedestrian safety blitzes have included both operational units and volunteers from the community police stations and auxiliary program.
Dangerous pedestrian behaviours include jaywalking, wearing dark, non-reflective clothing in dim light, listening to music while walking and assuming that vehicles will stop.
For safety tips, check the full story on www.richmond-news.com.
