Be street smart and stay safe
Submitted by Susan Baldani, a life member of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.
It’s hard being stuck inside, and not being able to visit family and friends makes it even more difficult. Now that warm temperatures are here, getting outside and being more active is a nice respite from the isolation and boredom of the last couple of months.
Lately, it’s very common to see adults and children walking, biking, and skateboarding throughout neighborhoods while practicing social distancing, which is smart. However, there are other dangers on the street. Although there may not be as many motorists traveling as there were before this virus hit, the advice of looking both ways before entering a roadway still applies.
When you’re crossing a street or moving into the street to give others a wide berth, take note of traffic ahead of and behind you. Driver’s will not expect you to walk out into the road. Don’t cut down on one risk while adding to another. Make sure the road is clear.
While biking and skateboarding, wear a helmet, and make sure your children do the same. Talk to your kids about being aware of their surroundings and obeying the same rules of the road that they have in the past.
Keeping yourself safe is a priority all the time, not just during a pandemic. So, get some fresh air and exercise, and wave to your neighbors and friends, but practice vigilance when sharing the road with others.
