Be seen and be safe
Rebecca Lemieux, 7, gets a reflective band from Marita Campbell, a public health nurse with the the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, Monday at George’s Market. The health unit, Active Transportation Thunder Bay and EcoSuperior Environmental Programs are sponsoring the pedestrian safety campaign, Be Safe, Be Seen. With Halloween coming as daylight hours diminish, walkers, runners and cyclists are reminded to be more visible to motorists.
“We know that the majority of pedestrian fatalities in Ontario occur at night or during dim light conditions,” says Campbell. “Pedestrians and cyclists can protect themselves by wearing bright and reflective clothing, making eye contact with motorists and crossing at intersections.”
According to the Office of the Chief Coroner’s Pedestrian Death Review (2012), 60-per-cent of recent pedestrian fatalities occurred in the act of crossing the road. In one-third of these cases, pedestrian action caused or contributed to the crash.
“Our streets are used by people getting from place to place in multiple ways, like walking, jogging, cycling and driving,” explains Adam Krupper, Active Transportation coordinator. “But, many pedestrians are wearing dark clothing with no reflective material, making them virtually invisible to drivers. As part of this campaign, we’re giving out free reflective armbands that will make a huge difference in helping people to simply be more visible. We’re happy to give these out just in time for Halloween.”
Local retailers and organizations are assisting with the campaign by distributing the armbands. They are available at: City of Thunder Bay Parking Authority, CyclePath, Petrie’s Cycle and Sports, Fresh Air Experience, EcoSuperior Environmental Programs, George’s Market, Westfort Foods Inc., Thunder Bay District Health Unit and locations throughout the district.
In addition to the armbands, the Be Safe. Be Seen. campaign involves posters and pamphlets.
Additional information about the campaign can be found at tbdhu.com