Pasadena Police Mark National Pedestrian Safety Month

With pedestrian fatalities on the rise nationwide, the Pasadena Police Department is urging caution amid National Pedestrian Safety Month.

“Whether in a parking lot, crosswalk, or intersection, we are all pedestrians,” Pasadena police Lt. Max Dahlstein said in a written statement.

“Always be aware and look for pedestrians. We want those who are out walking to be safe and feel safe when traveling,” he added.

Over the past decade, the number of pedestrians killed across the U.S. has increased by more than 50 percent, with 6,283 pedestrian deaths reported in 2018, police said. A pedestrian is killed in a collision somewhere in the country every 84 minutes.

Contributing factors can include excessive speed on the part of drivers, impairment, and pedestrians crossing outside of crosswalks, according to the Police Department.

Dalstein reminded drivers to slow down on busy streets and intersections, watch out for pedestrians, avoid distractions while driving, avoid blocking crosswalks and keep headlights on at night.

Pedestrians should obey all signals and signs and only cross at crosswalks, “preferably at stop signs or signals where cars expect to see pedestrians,” the statement said.

“Make eye contact and nod or wave at drivers. A quick nod or wave is an easy way to let a driver know you see them, and they see you,” the statement continued.

When walking at night, it’s also a good idea for pedestrians to carry flashlights or wear reflective vests, police said.