From staff reports
PennDOT, Safe Kids Clarion-Venango and the Rocky Grove High School Students Against Destructive Decisions partnered to hold a pedestrian project to mark International Walk to School Month.
The weeklong program kicked off Oct. 15 with a focus on a different pedestrian safety tip each day through Oct. 19. Peer-to-peer activities were used throughout the week to reinforce safe walking practices, such as using the marked crosswalk in front of the high school.
At the end of the week, one student who participated was chosen at random to receive a Fitbit watch and walking safety package donated by Safe Kids Clarion-Venango and the Walk This Way program sponsor.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 20 percent of children age 14 and younger who were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2016 were pedestrians. Drivers and pedestrians both have a responsibility to follow the law and safely share the road.
PennDOT offers the following safe walking tips:
- Wear light-colored, reflective clothing, especially when walking at night.
- When a sidewalk is not provided, walk against traffic.
- Use marked crosswalks and make eye contact with motorists before crossing the street.
- Be aware of the surroundings and watch for vehicles that are turning or backing up.
