Salem Police Department Reminds Community of Pedestrian Safety Tips

Deputy Police Chief Joel Dolan wishes to share pedestrian safety tips as a reminder for residents when walking and driving throughout town.

The reminder comes after the recent announcement from the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety that two of the seven traffic-related fatalities in the state this year have involved pedestrians.

“With warmer weather on its way, we ask all residents to use an abundance of caution as people start to spend more time outdoors,” Deputy Chief Dolan said. “One traffic-related death is too many and it’s everyone’s responsibility to take steps to stay safe.”

Deputy Chief Dolan would like to provide some helpful safety tips for pedestrians and motorists from the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety:

Pedestrian Safety:

  • Wear light-colored and reflective clothing for visibility.
  • Use a headlamp or flashlight to light up your route if you’re walking at night.
  • Make a practice of staying on one side of the path rather than weaving randomly from side to side.
  • Use crosswalks and sidewalks when available. Make eye contact with the drivers as they approach to ensure they see you. If a sidewalk is not available, walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic.
  • Walk on roads single file – especially on roads with curves and heavy traffic.
  • Don’t use your cellphone while walking. Distracted walking is dangerous for pedestrians and motorists.
  • Stay warm and layer up.

Driver Safety:

The Salem Police Department also wishes to share the following safety tips for motorists from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

  • Remain vigilant for pedestrians while driving.
  • Take care to watch out for pedestrians when visibility is poor, such as at night or in inclement weather.
  • Drive slowly and prepare to stop when approaching a crosswalk or turning.
  • Yield to pedestrians at a crosswalk, and stop well before the crosswalk.
  • Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be people crossing.
  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
  • Do not speed, especially near pedestrians and in school zones and neighborhoods.
  • Watch out for pedestrians while backing up.

For more information or safety tips, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety