Monday, May 21, 2012

MEMORIAL WEEKEND SAFETY TIPS

IDAHO STATE POLICE
1540 FOOTE DRIVE
IDAHO FALLS ID 83402


The Idaho State Police is joining with local law enforcement officers and highway safety advocates across the country to help save more lives by strongly enforcing seatbelt laws around the clock. Too many drivers and passengers on the road at night are not wearing their seat belts, and it all too often ends in tragedy. Seatbelt use saves thousands of lives across America each year.

While this year's Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization runs from May 22 through June 5, motorists should know that officers are out enforcing seat belt laws year-round. Law enforcement has a zero tolerance for non-seatbelt use and during this busy travel weekend, they will be out in force also looking for impaired and aggressive drivers.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, and during the rest of the year, drivers of all other vehicles and all other road users are reminded to safely "share the road" with motorcyclists, and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe.

May is also National Bike Month, and Operation Lifesaver, Inc., is sharing tips for safe biking near train tracks. Last year, 773 people were killed or injured in the U.S. while illegally walking, bicycling, or playing on railroad tracks or property. This year Operation Lifesaver is partnering with the League of American Bicyclists to urge bicyclists to use these safety reminders.

Six Rail Safety Tips for Bike Riders

1) Crossing Tracks on a Bicycle Requires Caution and Extra Attention! Narrow wheels can get caught between the rails. Always cross tracks at a 90-degree angle. If you're in doubt about your approach, walk rather than ride your bike across the tracks.

2) Use only Designated Railroad Crossings. The only legal and safe place to cross railroad tracks is at a designated public crossing with a crossbuck, flashing red lights or a gate.

3) Turn off Music and Remove Earphones at All Rail Crossings. Music can be a deadly distraction near the tracks - preventing you from hearing an approaching train.

4) Wet Train Tracks Can Be Slippery. Dismount and walk your bike across the tracks. Step over the tracks - not on them - to avoid slipping.

5) Watch out for the Second Train. Wait after the first train passes until you can see clearly in both directions.

6) If You See a Train Coming, Wait! Flashing lights or a lowering gate means a train is approaching. Do not proceed until the gates go completely up and the lights go off. It is illegal to go around lowered gates, whether on a bike, on foot or in a vehicle.

ISP reminds motorists to observe the "Move Over Law", which requires motorists to slow down and move over if possible when approaching a stationary Authorized Emergency Vehicle displaying flashing lights. Every year there are a number of police officers that are killed nationwide while parked on the side of the road during the course of their duties. The Move Over Law helps protect law enforcement officers and emergency service personnel who risk their lives protecting the public.

For on-camera interviews or a ride-along, contact:
Sergeant Scott Zaugg
Idaho State Police
1540 Foote Dr.
Idaho Falls, ID
208-525-7378

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY WEEKEND!