Pedestrian safety tips

It’s up to drivers and pedestrians to keep everyone safe on the roads. As a pedestrian, do your part. Make sure to cross the street in marked crosswalks or at traffic lights, as drivers may not see you in time if you cross in the middle of street (especially if you step out from between parked cars).

Be seen

Do not assume that drivers see you. You should make eye contact before you step in front of them. Remember that just because one driver lets you cross it does not guarantee that the other drivers in the intersection have seen you start walking across the street. If you’re out for a walk or run, consider wearing bright and/or reflective clothing, especially at dusk or dark

Be careful in bad weather

In the worst weather (especially during our Canadian winters), you need to pay extra attention to the drivers as a pedestrian. Drivers cannot stop as quickly, so stay on the curb until they have come to a complete stop.

Tips for parents

Make sure to show your children how to cross a road safely and to take extra care on roadways that have no curbs.

You should teach children how to:

• Stay to the side of the road, walking as far away from traffic as they safely can
• Stop at the edge of the sidewalk, and look both ways before crossing the road even on a one-way streets
• Watch out for blind corners (for example, a car coming out of an alley may not see a child about to cross).