Show someone how much you care: Drive safely

Valentine’s Day means different things to different people. Today can be a day of romance, a day to celebrate with friends or even treating yourself to that extra piece of chocolate.

Whether you are celebrating today, or looking forward to the discounted candy tomorrow, keep in mind there are many ways to express that you care about others. One of those ways is by driving responsibly and teaching others to do the same.

You can teach those you care about to protect themselves every time they get in a vehicle by explaining the importance of seat belt use. Lead by example and wear a seat belt each and every time you get behind the wheel. They’ll get the message.

Driving while distracted, especially with other people in the vehicle can seem like it’s not a big deal. At the same time, if someone is looking at their phone and texting while driving, a message is sent in more ways than one. It only takes a few seconds for a seemingly harmless message to change the lives of the people in  your vehicle forever.

Similarly, driving over the speed limit or not following the rules of the road can send the message that getting to your destination is more important than the lives of the people you share the road with.

Showing care for others is both a verb and a choice. By making smart decisions, like wearing a seat belt, ditching the distractions, driving sober and obeying the speed limit, you express to everyone how much you truly care.

What message will you send the next time you get behind the wheel?

Halloween safety tips

Tomorrow, candy will flow and trick-or-treaters across the country will take to the streets to collect the sugary goodness. Here are some safety tips to ensure everyone has a frightfully good time.

Drivers:

• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility - Even in the day time.
• Watch for trick-or-treaters on curbs, streets and medians. They could be wearing darker costumes so keep your eyes peeled.
• Slow down in residential areas.  Give yourself extra time to react should a trick-or-treater dash into the road.
• Be sure to scan both sides of the street as you drive. Be prepared  to stop for trick-or-treaters.

Trick or Treaters:

 If you are young at heart and will be taking to the streets to collect some goodies, there are a few things you need to know:

• Let your parents or guardians know where you will be going. Create a route and stick to it. 
• Follow safety rules, and look both ways before crossing the streets. Don’t cross between vehicles.
• Trick or treat in a group. It can be more entertaining and safer. Younger children should be with a responsible adult or youth.
• Be bright at night - ensure that that your costume can be seen by drivers. Enhance your costumes with reflective tape or glow sticks.
• You should be able to see without difficulty. Don’t wear bulky masks or head gear. Consider using non-toxic face make up or paint.
• Carry a flashlight inside your Halloween bucket or bag so you can see where you are going. DON’T shine it into the eyes of drivers.
• Stay on sidewalks - if you must walk in the street, walk on the left side, facing traffic.

We hope you have a happy Halloween!