Pedestrian Safety

Every year, the Darien-Woodridge Fire Protection District responds to emergencies involving pedestrians - both adults and children.

Simple Safety Tips

Pedestrian injuries and deaths can be prevented by following some simple tips:

·         Cross streets at crosswalks, signals or corners.

·         Always remember to stop a safe distance away from the curb, then look and listen for traffic.

·         Remember to STOP - look left, look right, then left again before starting to cross.

·         If a parked car is blocking your view, step to the front of the car, look left, and look right, then left again before starting to cross.

·         Obey all traffic signs and signals.

·         Push "Pedestrian Walk" button for the "WALK" signal.  It will give you more time to cross the street.

·         If there is no traffic signal, wait for a break in traffic before starting to cross.

·         Make eye contact with drivers before crossing - be sure the drivers see you.

·         When walking at night, make sure you can be seen.  Wear reflective, bright or light colored clothing.

·         Do not use alcohol or any other drugs when moving in or around traffic in any way - even walking!

·         Always walk on the sidewalk.  When there are no sidewalks, walk on the left-hand side of the street.  The traffic will be coming toward you, so drivers will be able to see you.

·         Teach children to cross in front of a bus; children should stay away from the side or back of the bus where the driver cannot see them.

Especially for Children

·         Cross only with a parent or crossing guard at major streets and intersections.

·         Always listen to and obey all crossing guard directions.

·         Stand in the "Safety Zone" (the Safety Zone is 2 giant steps back from the curb) until the crossing guard signals it is safe to cross the street.

·         Walk carefully.  No running or horseplay while crossing the street.

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