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Motor Vehicle Safety

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Tips for Crossing the Street
Before crossing, stop at the curb, edge of the road, or comer before proceeding.  Look left-right-left...if it's clear, begin crossing, looking over your shoulder for turning vehicles.  Continue to check for traffic while crossing.

While crossing at signals
At intersections with traffic lights and pedestrian signals, it's important to follow the signals carefully.  Wait until you see the WALK signal, following, again, the basic rules for crossing.

A flashing DON'T WALK signal indicates you shouldn't start to cross the street.  However, if you are in the middle of the street and the DON'T WALK signal starts flashing, continue walking.  You have time to complete the crossing.

If you see a steady DON'T WALK signal, don't begin to cross the street!  Wait for the next WALK signal.

The WALK signal and a green traffic signal indicate it's your turn to cross the street, but they do not mean it's safe to cross!  The WALK signal and the green light mean LOOK, and IF IT'S CLEAR, THEN CROSS!

Always make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.


Teaching Your Child to Cross the Street Safely

Pedestrians

  • Take your children to a nearby street corner and ask them what they must do before crossing.  Answer: Look both ways to be sure that no vehicle is coming.
  • Take your children to an intersection with a traffic light and ask them to explain the difference between the colored lights.  Answer: The green light tells me I can cross the street; the red light tells me I cannot cross the street.  Suggestion: While driving, ask your children to look for traffic lights.  When they have found one, ask them what color the light is and what the color tells them to do.
  • Practice crossing the street with your child. Be sure to look both ways before crossing.

 

 
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue
Command & Business Operations Center
20665 SW Blanton Street
Aloha, Oregon 97007
Tel:  (503) 649-8577 | Fax: (503) 642-4814