Phoenix is recognized as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States for pedestrians. Every year, the Phoenix Fire Department responds to hundreds of emergencies involving pedestrians - both adults and children.
Simple Safety Tips
Pedestrian injuries and deaths can be prevented by following some simple tips:
- Cross streets at crosswalks, signals or corners.
- Always remember to stop a safe distance away from the curb, then look and listen for traffic.
- Remember to STOP - look left, look right, then left again before starting to cross.
- If a parked car is blocking your view, step to the front of the car, look left, look right, then left again before starting to cross.
- Obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Push "Pedestrian Walk" button for the "WALK" signal. It will give you more time to cross the street.
- If there is no traffic signal, wait for a break in traffic before starting to cross.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing - be sure the drivers see you.
- When walking at night, make sure you can be seen. Wear reflective, bright or light colored clothing.
- Do not use alcohol or any other drugs when moving in or around traffic in any way - even walking!
- Always walk on the sidewalk. When there are no sidewalks, walk on the left-hand side of the street. The traffic will be coming toward you, so drivers will be able to see you.
Teach children to cross in front of a bus; children should stay away from the side or back of the bus where the driver cannot see them.
Especially for Children
- Cross only with a parent or crossing guard at major streets and intersections.
- Always listen to and obey all crossing guard directions.
- Stand in the "Safety Zone" (the Safety Zone is two giant steps back from the curb) until the crossing guard signals it is safe to cross the street.
- Walk carefully. No running or horseplay while crossing the street.
