‘Shine Bright, Stay Alive’ campaign launched by Mayo Road Safety Office

MAYO County Council’s Road Safety Office have launched a road safety campaign to promote and encourage the use of high vis vests called 'Shine Bright, Stay Alive'.

The Road Safety Office is shining a light on road safety to promote the use of high vis vests. By simply wearing a high vis vest, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of accidents, especially during low light hours.

People are reminded that dark coloured clothing and coats may look chic, but at night or on cloudy days, they can make pedestrians almost invisible.

Mayo Road Safety Office encourages everyone to embrace this simple yet powerful safety measure and make our roads safer for all.

Frances Mitchell, road safety officer, said: “Pedestrians can go unnoticed as they simply cannot be seen.

“By wearing reflective clothing or attaching light reflectors to bags or clothing accidents can be avoided and lives saved. You can even attach light reflectors to your dog’s lead to help you both be visible to other road users.

“Cyclists should have lights and reflectors on their bikes but can further enhance their visibility using additional reflectors.

“For drivers, it is important that you carry out winter checks on your vehicles to make sure your tyres have sufficient tread and are correctly inflated, lights should be in good working order and remember to switch them on.”

Pedestrians are also encouraged to follow these safety tips:

* Pretend you're invisible. Don’t assume a driver sees you. In fact, imagine that a driver can’t see you, and behave accordingly.

* Plan your walk – location where little or no traffic.

* Wear bright or reflective clothing or shoes when walking at night. Avoid dark clothes; drivers can't avoid what they can't see.

* Stay sober; walking while impaired increases your chance of being struck.

* Unplug your ears. Avoid using or wearing headphones - you need to be able to hear approaching vehicles. If you do use headphones, run with the volume low and just one earbud in. Don't wear headphones or talk on a mobile phone while crossing the street.

* Watch out for motorists’ blind spots. Watch the hills. When they crest hills, drivers' vision can suddenly be impaired by factors like sun glare or backdrops. Don't assume that cars are going to stop.

* Be aware of vehicles around you. Make eye contact with motorists before crossing paths.

* Watch for early birds and night owls. At odd hours be extra careful. Early in the morning and very late at night, people may be overtired and not as attentive.

* Use footpaths whenever possible.

* Look left, right and left again before crossing. Watch for turning cars.

* Check with your local sports partnership for official walks.

Motorists are also encouraged to follow these safety tips:

* Watch for pedestrians especially at night and early morning.

* Expect and slow for pedestrians in popular walking areas.

* Drive at cautious speeds in rainy weather and in low-light areas.

Mayo County Council offices across the county have been stocked with high vis vests for those who wish to acquire them on a first come-first served basis free of charge.