Barrie police launches pedestrian safety blitz

Barrie Police launches pedestrian safety blitz

Barrie Police are launching a pedestrian safety blitz dubbed “It’s a big step!” Officers will be at or near intersections looking pedestrians crossing against the traffic signal and motorist failing to properly yield for pedestrians.

Over the past 20 years there have been 9000 pedestrian related fatalities in Canada and hundreds of thousands of pedestrians have been injured.

Police and the Ministry of Transportation say the amount of pedestrian collisions can be greatly reduce if pedestrians and motorist follow some very simple rules.

As a Pedestrian:

· Cross at marked crosswalks or traffic lights, not in the middle of the block or between parked cars;

· Make sure drivers see you before you cross;

· Cross when traffic has come to a complete stop;

· At traffic lights, cross at the beginning of a green light. Do not cross once the “Don't Walk” signal begins to flash or once the light has turned to yellow. Never cross on a red light;

· Watch for traffic turning at intersections or entering and leaving driveways;

· Wear bright or light-coloured clothing or reflective strips, when walking in dusk or darkness.

As a Motorist:

· Be patient, especially with older pedestrians who need more time to cross the road;

· Always look for pedestrians, especially when turning;

· Remember, stay alert and slow down on residential streets and through school zones.