THE region was this week rocked by news a pedestrian had been killed in Griffith, making a new campaign even more vital in Leeton.
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Leeton Shire Council has reminded residents how vital it is to “be seen, be safe” during the winter months while out walking and exercising.
The message has gone out to cyclists and pedestrians, who should ensure they wear high-visibility clothing or reflective material so they are seen by drivers and other road users.
Council’s road safety officer Steph Puntoriero said it was a warning all should adhere to.
“In our shire we have a large number of people who walk and cycle for health and leisure in the early morning and evening,” she said.
“In the winter months these times of day become more dangerous when walking on roads due to poor natural light.
“I would urge walkers to try and use our shared cycle and footpath network where possible to take them off the roads.”
“In areas where footpaths are not available residents should wear high-visibility clothing or reflective material and keep to the side of the road and walk facing oncoming traffic.”
Mrs Puntoriero said these simple steps would help drivers see pedestrians, skateboarders and cyclists in advance, allowing them to give room on the road side.
“Children walking or cycling to school or waiting at rural bus stops would also benefit from the use of reflective clothing,” she said.
More than half of pedestrian fatalities occur in darkness or dusk, making it even more essential for residents to “be seen and be safe”.