GUY CARROZZO -- Mayor’s Column

My last Mayor’s Column dealt with Fountain Valley schools, and I want

to continue with the same theme.

Today, I want to talk about back-to-school safety. Nothing in this

world is more important than our children, so I want to take this

opportunity to remind everyone -- adults and children alike -- of the

importance of obeying all vehicle and pedestrian traffic laws.

By obeying the ABCs of traffic and pedestrian signals, we can all help

ensure the continued safety of the community. To help educate us, I asked

Fountain Valley Engineering Associate Jose Alire for some pointers

regarding pedestrian and vehicle safety.

Signalized intersections have pedestrian signals that show the words

“walk” and “don’t walk” or a walking person in white and a raised hand in

orange to direct pedestrians. Before entering the intersection, always

activate the pedestrian signal by pushing the crosswalk button mounted on

the signal pole. After pushing the button, the “walk” or walking person

will appear, which provides pedestrians about five seconds to begin

proceeding across the street to the other side.

If you don’t push the button, you may not have enough time to cross

before the signal changes. You may continue crossing when the flashing

“Don’t Walk” or raised hand appears, as you will still have adequate time

to cross safely at a comfortable walking pace. However, do not start

crossing the street, as you may not have enough time to safely make it

across.

Signals assign rights of way in an intersection. However, it is

important to always be cautious when crossing. The following suggestions

are offered for your safety: Cross intersections defensively, look and

listen for opposing and turning traffic, try to make eye contact with

drivers of cars approaching crosswalks to make sure that they see you and

allow you to safely cross the street, and cross the street as quickly as

possible without running.

If you walk, jog or bicycle during evening hours, wear bright colors

or reflective material for visibility. Always wear helmets and protective

gear when bicycling, skateboarding, skating or riding scooters. Walk

facing traffic. Bicycle in the direction of traffic. Riding your bicycle

against the flow of traffic, whether in the street or on the sidewalk, is

illegal and dangerous.

Whenever possible, walk with friends or classmates, and never accept

rides from strangers. For children, always tell your parents or guardians

the route that you will take to and from school and the time that you can

be expected home. Always cross streets at designated crosswalks, looking

both ways several times before proceeding across. Never assume that the

vehicles see you and that they will stop.

Also, it is important to remember that if you are a bicyclist crossing

within a marked crosswalk, you must walk your bicycle and obey the

pedestrian signals. If you ride outside the crosswalk, you are considered

a vehicle and must obey all traffic signs and signals.

For motorists, remember to reduce speed to 25 mph in posted school

zones when children are present, pay full attention to all traffic

signals and signs, avoid the temptation of using the cellular phone or

other activities that may distract your attention, obey all child seat

belt laws, and allow extra time for your travel. This will help reduce

congestion, frustration and tension. This also makes for a safer,

healthier environment for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

These are just a few reminders for all of us to keep in mind. For

information on the suggested routes to school for your children, contact

your school administrator.

* GUY CARROZZO is mayor of Fountain Valley.