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 waken 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 to be.
"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 behaviors include jaywalking, wearing dark, non-reflective clothing in dim light, listening to music while walking and assuming that vehicles will stop.
OPTIONAL CUT
Pedestrian safety tips include:
ù Remove your headphones. Refrain from using your cell phone or other electronics when crossing the street. Your full attention needs to be focused on what's going on around you so you can see, hear and respond.
ù Make eye contact with drivers. Never assume that drivers see you.
ù Be cautious and pay attention to traffic. Know that drivers may not always stop or obey traffic control devices.
ù Dress to be seen. Wear bright or light colored clothing. In bad weather or in low light wear reflective clothing.
ù Walk facing traffic if there are no sidewalks. Use the outside edge or shoulder of the roadway so you can see vehicles coming towards you.
ù Look in all directions when crossing the street. This includes over your shoulder for any vehicles that may be turning. Keep an eye out for approaching vehicles as you cross.
ù Listen for approaching vehicles that may not yet be visible. Vehicles could be approaching you from a driveway, around a corner or from over a hill.
ù Use crosswalks wherever possible. Please don't cross on the "do not walk" signal.
