Safety Tips

At one time or another we are all pedestrians who walk in the community. Many people wished they could walk more often and to more places. But, one reason continues to keep them from walking. What is the number one reason people say they do not walk outside in the community? Not feeling safe.

Steps to a Healthier Clark County asked Clark County residents what made them feel unsafe when walking. The answers are:

Poor lighting
No sidewalks or damaged sidewalks
Cars that don’t obey pedestrian-related traffic laws
Having to walk too close to traffic
Long distances between destinations
Feeling at risk because they are elderly, walking with children, or because few other people are out walking

Information and tips from the City of Vancouver Transportation Services

Between 1997- 2002, in Vancouver pedestrians were involved in 219 collisions with motor vehicles. 45% were caused by drivers failing to yield to pedestrians. 32% were caused by pedestrians crossing mid-block or at unmarked locations.

We all need to do our part to make our community safe for pedestrians!
Top Tips include:

Walk facing traffic.
Always try to use marked crossings.
Look left, right, and then left again before crossing the street.
Wear light colors or reflective clothing.
Be defensive.
Never assume that an oncoming motorist will stop.
In all cases, be aware of your surroundings!
Role model safe driving practices and yield to pedestrians when you are behind the wheel

Learn more safety information and what our community is doing to increase pedestrian safety:

A Message on Safety from the Vancouver Police Department:

One of the ways in which the Vancouver Police Department is addressing community livability issues is by forming a citizen volunteer patrol program. Teams of citizens will walk or drive in their neighborhood, acting as additional eyes and ears and reporting suspicious circumstances to the police. Patrollers will receive specialized training and equipment to perform this activity. For more information about Neighbors on Watch, contact Kelly Mott at (360) 487-7467 or go to www.vanpolice.org

Web Links

Kids, Families, Safety, and Schools

City of Vancouver Commute Trip Reduction

City of Vancouver Transportation Services Safety Tips

Feet First

National Safety Council

Safe Routes to School - WA

Safe Routes to School Initiative

SafeKids

Washington Department of Transportation Crosswalk Law

Washington Department of Transportation Pedestrian Laws

Washington Department of Transportation Safety Tips

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Learn and Get Involved Locally

City of Vancouver Neighborhood Traffic Safety Alliance

City of Vancouver Office of Neighborhoods

Clark County Neighborhood Outreach Program

Community Choices

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Local Walking Opportunities

Sunday Hiking Program

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Walkable Communities

Community Forum: "Can we get there from here?" - Keynote by Mark Fenton (PPT 22.5 MB)

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