PD Ports support the Be Visible campaign 
Teesside University students hand out the hi-vis giveaways
Following the clocks going back at the weekend all road users are being urged to Be Visible this winter as Cleveland Fire Brigade launches a drive to reduce the number of collisions.
The campaign, running throughout November, includes the issue of high visibility reflectors, lights, and other resources, to ensure pedestrians, cyclists, dog walkers and everyone else on the move can be seen.
The Safer Roads Be Visible push takes in the National Road Safety Week (15 – 21 November) which is organised by Brake the road safety charity. This year’s theme celebrates the work of road safety professionals and encourages us all to be a ‘Safety Hero” by making journeys safer for everyone.
The campaign is backed up by advertising at bus stops to get the vital safety messages out into communities. In November 2020 there were three deaths on roads in the Brigade area, eight serious injuries and 42 minor injuries.
Andrew Bright, Cleveland Fire Brigade’s Road Safety Co-ordinator said: “With the reduced daylight hours and changing weather conditions it is vitally important that all road users take extra care and can be seen.”
“Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable so drivers cannot afford to be distracted from the road ahead at any time. Having some reflective clothing or attaching light reflectors to bags can help keep you safe and even save lives. You can even attach light reflectors to your dog’s lead to help you both be visible to other road users. Cyclists should have lights and reflectors on their bikes but can further enhance their visibility using additional reflectors.”
Drivers are also reminded of the importance of regularly checking their vehicles to ensure they are road ready and are not caught out during the winter months. These checks should include attention to tyres, both tread condition and pressures, fluid levels and all lights. Remember don’t set off until you have clear visibility.
Excess or inappropriate speed is a major contributor to serious injury collisions, so we are also appealing to drivers to watch their speed and give themselves more time in adverse weather conditions as it takes longer to stop in snow, ice or wet.
The Brigade has been working with different groups across Cleveland, including the Harbour Police at PD Ports, who will be speaking to cyclists and pedestrians not wearing high visibility clothing to remind them of the need to be seen and stay safe. Teesside University students have also been handing out reflective giveaways.
To find out more ways to help you Be Safe and Be Seen follow us on social media. For more information on staying safe on the roads visit our website www.clevelandfire.gov.uk
