Our community has been shaken by a recent accident.  First an email goes out about an accident in the area:

Then we find out that it is a person very near and dear to all the people in our Boy Scout Troop.

We should all take a moment to pray for the people that are affected by this.

We are somewhat relieved that the suspect has been caught.:  Arrest made in hit-and-run that killed dog, injured woman

But this is not the only driver we have to be worried about.  Here are some ideas of how to increase safety while walking and driving.  If you have some ideas then leave them as a comment.

While Walking:

This is a reminder that it only takes one driver to make the road unsafe for walkers.  We must practice defensive walking.

• Walk with a partner. 
• Carry a cell phone while you are on a walk.
• Use the sidewalks if available.
• Be extra careful at street crossing.  Do not depend on the drivers of the cars to stop or to see us.
• Try to walk during the day.  But if you do walk at night, then wear blinking lights to increase the chances that drivers will see us.
• Let other people know about the path you plan to take and what time to expect you back.  Be predictable so that if you do not show up when expected, people know to look for you.  And they have an idea of where.
• Do not listen to headphones while walking.  Also, do not walk and text or look at your cellphone.  If you need to text or talk, then choose a spot, finish up the call, and then continue on your walk.  We must stay alert.

While Driving

Driving is a privilege.  It comes with a big responsibility to ensure that we keep everyone safe.  Here are some things we can do as drivers to make the roads safer. 

• Focus only on driving.  Do not talk on the phone, text, mess with the radio, or worry with other people in the car.  If you need to worry about any of these, then pull over and take care of it.
• Don’t be in a hurry.  Make sure that you have a realistic schedule, and that you leave extra time for unforeseen events.
• Drive at the speed limit or below.  When it is dark, approaching intersections, turning corners, bad weather conditions then drive slower.
• When approaching an intersection, go ahead and slow down.  If you are unsure if it is a 4 way stop, then stop anyway. 
• Do not over drive your headlights.
• When in an area where pedestrians are common, consider rolling down the windows and turning off the radio.  You may be able to hear people before you see them.  Especially true when in a parking lot and backing up.
• Carry a phone just in case you need to call for help.
• Have a first aid kit in the car.  Be prepared to be a good Samaritan.
• Try to drive during the day.  If you must drive at night, then take extra care.