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Senior Safety Tip of the Month - September 2021

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: In low light, remember to wear white!

It seems like only yesterday that we were celebrating the arrival of summer, yet here we are in September just a few days from the start of autumn. And that means increasing low light conditions.

Pedestrians can increase safety levels this autumn by making themselves more conspicuous as they move about in near darkness. Remember, regardless of who’s at fault during a pedestrian / vehicle collision, typically it’s the pedestrian who will suffer most.

If you’re shopping for a new coat, consider a light colour. The same with hats, scarves, gloves, purses, back packs and bags. For extremely vulnerable situations, wear a reflective arm band or accessory. And if you’re walking the dog, a reflective leash and accessories will help both of you really “POP”! There’s no need to go overboard with clothing choices, but even a minor increase in visibility will help you get to your destination and home again in safety.

When you’re out for a walk, concentrate and be aware of your surroundings. No hand held devices while close to traffic! Cross roadways at the appropriate intersection - lighted location. Stepping into traffic mid-block in dark clothing can be deadly.

Senior Safety Tips COVID-19 Update

STAY ALERT - How COVID-19 Is Affecting Traffic Behaviour!

It first appeared that any COVID-19 impacts on traffic patterns would be minor and brief. Health guidelines now show our return to normal must be gradual and strategic. So let’s look at current traffic trends that will likely be with us for months ahead.

• Lower traffic volume means more speeders. Be vigilant and watch your own speed. When blending with traffic, assume others are exceeding the speed limit. It can be difficult to judge the speed of an approaching vehicle, especially at a busy intersection.
• Current pedestrian behaviour at intersections and crosswalks is entirely new to us. Where groups or clusters were the norm, we now see long, physically distanced “conga lines”. Drivers must be careful to double check before proceeding or turning.
• Physical distancing has pedestrians frequently stepping off the sidewalk and onto the road. Maybe not a huge issue when vehicle volume is low, but be careful when traffic flow returns to normal. Remind your children and grandchildren that getting too close to someone during our health crisis is not a good idea, but stepping into traffic can be far worse.

Drivers of all ages must be extra vigilant. Current pandemic-related driver and pedestrian behaviours - compounded by increased mental distractions - will be with us for months, not weeks. To review more safe driving tips from Sergeant Bob, click here.

Senior Safety Tips COVID-19 Update

Respect Disabled Parking Spots: “I was only there for a minute” doesn’t just cut it!

Because of COVID-19, you’ll likely see changes to parking lots and signage as we adapt to pedestrian access, physical distancing, cart sanitizing, barriers, etc. Let’s take care of those who need our assistance whether it’s inside the building or in the parking area.

It should go without saying that the designated parking spots and disabled permits are intended to minimize discomfort and risk to individuals dealing with a temporary or permanent health issue. And yet, some drivers without the legitimate permit routinely use the spots marked for disabled parking.

• If you have a legitimate parking permit, ensure that it is CLEARLY DISPLAYED so there’s no confusion or argument.
• STAY OUT of the spots designated for disabled parking unless you are authorized to use them.

When the appropriate charge is laid by police or bylaw officer, the common response is “But I was only in the spot for a minute”. This excuse is of no interest to the person laying the charge or to the person with a disability circling the parking lot in frustration.