How To Practice Sidewalk Safety

Check Out These Essential Sidewalk Safety Tips to Protect You and Those Around You! 

 

Sidewalks became popular during the 19th century to provide a safe space for pedestrians to exist separate from the roadways. Prior to their existence, pedestrians were forced to compete for space with horse- drawn carriages and wagons. Whether you are a pedestrian or a driver, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Use these tips to help prevent accidents and keep your family safe on the sidewalk. 

Pedestrian Sidewalk Safety 

Whether you’re an avid walker or just out on a casual stroll - it’s important to know the basic safety precautions to take when out and about. 

1. It’s important to be predictable and to obey pedestrian signs and signals. Remember to walk facing traffic whenever possible.
2. Keep alert at all times. Be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as cell phones or headphones.
3. Be on the lookout for vehicles that are entering and exiting parking lots and driveways.
4. Never assume a driver sees you. Aim to make eye contact with drivers as their vehicle approaches.
5. Be sure to wear bright colored, reflective clothing and to carry a flashlight when out at night.

Sidewalk Safety for Drivers 

While driving, you never know where pedestrians may be. While we can hope that they are using the sidewalk, as well as taking additional safety precautions, you may find that is not always the case. Use these tips while on the road to avoid an accident.

1. Stay alert and be on the lookout for pedestrians at all times
2. Drive slowly and use caution at night or when there is bad weather. 
3. Be prepared to stop when turning on to a new road, as well as when you are approaching crosswalks or intersections. If you do see a pedestrian trying to cross, making eye contact can indicate that you see them.  
4. Be prepared to stop when turning on to a new road, as well as when you are approaching crosswalks or intersections. If you do see a pedestrian trying to cross, making eye contact can indicate that you see them.
5. Pay special attention when in school zones and neighborhoods as there are often children playing in those areas.
6. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk and never pass a stopped school bus.
7. Be extra careful when you are backing up your vehicle as pedestrians may move into your path quickly and without warning. 

 

Sidewalk Safety for Homeowners:

More often than not, sidewalk maintenance will fall on the homeowner rather than the town. If you happen to be renting your space, it’s important to know whose responsibility it is to keep the sidewalk clear and safe. Be sure to have this information in writing from your landlord or leasing office. Although it may feel like a chore, it’s important to make sure the sidewalk surrounding your home or property is clear of safety hazards to avoid accidents as well as lawsuits. 

1. During the winter months, it is important to clear snow as soon as possible after it’s accumulated to avoid slip and fall incidents. You will want to spread salt or ice-melt on any icy areas. 
2. Take notice of uneven surfaces, bumps, cracks, or deterioration in your sidewalks. These should be repaired as soon as possible as they are tripping hazards. 
3. Be sure to quickly remove any obstructions from your sidewalks such as garbage, or maintenance equipment that may be lingering there.

 

Keeping you and your family safe is of the utmost importance. Once inside for the day, you’ll want to be sure you are heating your home safely.  Check out the link below for more information.