Cleveland Fire Brigade is shining a light on road safety as they launch a drive to make sure pedestrians, cyclists, and everyone else on the move can be seen.
The move forward comes as the clocks go back and the darker days increase the dangers for all road users.
The campaign, running throughout November, will be targeting risk groups, and promoting the use of high visibility resources such as reflectors, lights, and back pack covers to ensure no one is in the dark.
It also ties in to National Road Safety Week (14 – 20 November) which this year has the theme of Safer Roads for All. The Brigade with members of the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership will be visiting the four main further education Colleges across the area during the campaign to engage with students and spread these important safety messages.
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 having some reflective clothing or attaching light reflectors to bags can help keep you safe and even save lives. Cyclists should have lights and reflectors on their bikes but can further enhance their visibility using additional reflectors and wearing bright clothing. Parents can also help by checking that their kids are appropriately equipped and will be visible when out after dark near the roads.
Drivers also have a key role to play by ensuring their vehicles are road ready for the winter months and are reminded of the importance of regularly checking their vehicle to ensure they are not caught out. These checks should include, lights, tyres, both tread condition and pressures, and fluid levels. Remember don’t set off until you have clear visibility.
Journeys may take longer in poor weather conditions, so drivers are urged to give themselves more time. 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.
All road users have their part to play in ensuring their journey remains safe, so it is important we all look out for each other.”
In November 2021, 58 people were injured in road traffic collisions – 8 with serious injuries and 50 with slight injuries.14 were pedestrians; 4 pedal cyclists; 4 motor cyclists.
To find out more ways to help you Be Safe and Be Seen follow us on social media. Click here for further road safety advice.
