SAIF urges pedestrians to be safe, be seen [video]

Walking is one of the best things you can do for your health. But walking at night can be dangerous if you can’t be seen.

That’s why SAIF released a new video today, reminding Oregonians how to get their steps in safely at night now that the days are getting shorter.

“A lot of companies encourage wellness at work, which is a great thing,” said Kevin Pfau, senior safety management consultant at SAIF. “But it’s important to take that one step further, and remind employees of a few simple things they can do to make sure they don’t run into trouble on their daily walk.”

Here are a few precautions Pfau recommends:

• Walk facing traffic.
• Use sidewalks and crosswalks when available.
• Look left, right, and left again before crossing a street. Make eye contact with drivers.
• Stay alert. Avoid talking or texting on your phone.
• Carry a flashlight and wear high-visibility (preferably retro-reflective) clothing and gear.

Pfau adds that, with Halloween next week, families should use this opportunity to discuss these tips with their children.

“Whether you’re out for a daily walk or trick-or-treating next week, it’s important to remember: be safe, be seen.”

Drivers can also do their part to ensure pedestrians get home safely by remaining alert. Oregon Department of Transportation has more information on reducing distracted driving at drivehealthy.org.

More information and tips on pedestrian safety can be found at SAIF.com/pedestriansafety.

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.