Shorter days mean longer hours of darkness and that has the Houston RCMP detachment reminding both motorists and pedestrians to be extra careful and cautious.
While vigilance should be practised everywhere, the need is more so around schools, said Sergeant Ryan Fillmore, the officer in command of the detachment.
“We want to remind the public to take extra care and precautions,” he said.
With that in mind, the Houston RCMP detachment has been increasing its presence in school zones.
The effort drew an acknowledgement and appreciation from District of Houston councillor Troy Reitsma at a recent council meeting.
Here are some steps the Houston RCMP says pedestrians can take to increase safety:
— make eye contact with drivers, as it’s hard to see pedestrians when visibility is poor in fall and winter. Never assume a driver has seen you.
— be careful at intersections. Watch for drivers turning left or right through the crosswalk. Drivers may be focused on oncoming traffic and not see you.
— always cross at designated crosswalks and follow pedestrian signs and traffic signals.
— remove your headphones and take a break from your phone while crossing the road.
— be as reflective as possible to make it easier for drivers to see you in wet weather, at dusk and at night.
And here are some ways drivers can help to try and avoid collisions include:
— focus on the road. Always leave your phone alone while driving.
— be ready to yield to pedestrians, especially when turning at intersections and near transit stops.
— if a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding for a pedestrian.
— expect the unexpected, even mid-block, as pedestrians may not be using a crosswalk.
Fillmore said motorists should be aware of pedestrian traffic around them.
“All road users need to do their part to make our roadways safer,” he said.