Mercer urges caution on roads as winter arrives

With the clocks due to go back an hour this coming weekend, Ulster Unionist Councillor Olive Mercer flagged up what she called the additional challenges it meant for schoolchildren, drivers and indeed all road-users.

“Pedestrians need to ensure they do not walk into danger,” she said. “Be Safe, Be Seen, by letting others know you are there. “School uniforms are traditionally dark; wear reflective strips at night and fluorescent strips by day on your clothing, or arm bands. “Reflective badges on school bags are an ideal way of enabling other road users to see you. Children’s shoes often incorporate flashing lights as an added safety feature. If you do not have these, wear something white, bright or colourful. Going out at night in dark clothing can put your safety at risk.”

Mrs. Mercer also urged motorists to be alert for other road-users, among them the elderly and/or infirm and those who might themselves be distracted, whether because they were in a hurry, supervising young children or on their mobile phones

“Remember,” she said, “they may not see you, so slow down as you approach junctions, crossings and areas surrounding schools. See and be seen by using your lights, especially when visibility is poor.”

The local councillor finally urged cyclists and motorcyclists to likewise be safe and be seen by wearing suitable clothing and having adequate lighting on their cycles.

“Remember, expect the unexpected and hopefully there will be no nasty surprises,” she said.