Heads Up Alaska

Heads Up Alaska – Summer activities and tourist season bring more foot traffic throughout Alaska. No matter whether you are at home, hiking Alaska’s Trails, or enjoying outdoor activities that Alaska’s summers bring, be present and aware of your surroundings.

At Home

Even when we know the area, we can become distracted walkers. Fifty-two percent (52%) of distracted walking incidents occur at home according to the National Safety Council. Talking on phones, using tablets, monitoring children or pets, etc. Multitasking throughout our daily lives can be distracting. In the time it takes us to look down or away, accidents can happen around the home, so keep your Heads Up Alaska.

Distracted Outside

Outside distractions can be dangerous. There are many more factors you cannot control. Despite best efforts to stay safe, mother nature is not predictable and can make well-known pathways a hazard. When we are distracted, the chance of injury is increased, and often avoidable. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.

Currently, when outdoor events are so prevalent for summer celebrations It is important to be extra cautious. When attending outdoor activities or special events, be sure you are looking out for others, whether they are pedestrians, animals, cars, etc. That call, text or post will wait until you are in a safe location and stationary position. Keep your Heads Up Alaska. When out walking, avoid distracting devices until you are seated and unfettered.

Heads Up Alaska

Pedestrians:

• Use Crosswalks: Always cross streets at designated crosswalks or intersections. Avoid jaywalking.
• Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light hours and overcast days.
• Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone and remove headphones when crossing streets. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the road. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.
• Obey Traffic Signals: Wait for the “walk” signal and check all directions before crossing.
• Walk Facing Traffic: If sidewalks are not available, walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic.

Drivers:

• Yield to Pedestrians: Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Be especially cautious in school zones and neighborhoods.
• Stay Alert: Eliminate distractions. Watch for pedestrians at all times, especially in low-visibility conditions. Keep your Heads Up Alaska.
• Slow Down: Drive at safe speeds and be prepared to stop unexpectedly, particularly in high foot-traffic areas.
• Follow the Law: Obey all traffic signs and signals. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Whether you are at home, hiking Alaska’s Trails, or enjoying outdoor activities that Alaska’s summers bring, Keep your Heads Up Alaska. Remind those in your family or group to pay attention to where they are walking and their surroundings.

Part Three of a three-part series. See: Part One: Walk Aware Alaska and Part Two: Alaska Cell Phone Distractions

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Occupational Health & Safety; Alaska’s News Source

Image Source: Alaska’s News Source