PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MONTH: TAKING STRIDES TOWARDS SAFER STREETS

As the leaves start to change, the days get shorter, and the crisp autumn air settles in, the Association of Central Oklahoma (ACOG) is gearing up to observe Pedestrian Safety Month throughout the month of October. This initiative, aimed at raising awareness and promoting safety for pedestrians, comes at a time when auto related crashes and fatalities remain a pressing concern for communities across the state.

“We’re excited to celebrate Pedestrian Safety Month,” John Sharp, ACOG Deputy Director said. “As the days get shorter, it becomes essential for pedestrians to be visible to drivers. We all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe. Each year, about 750 pedestrians and 325 bicyclists are hit by cars on Oklahoma roadways, leading to serious injuries and fatalities,” Sharp said.

“Pedestrian Safety Month seeks to emphasize the importance of creating pedestrian-friendly environments, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among all road users, and implementing measures to ensure the safety of those who travel by foot.” Throughout October, a series of engaging events, educational campaigns, and community outreach activities are planned to address various aspects of pedestrian safety. These initiatives will include:

Walk to School – October 4: On this special day, students, parents, and educators from some schools in the Central Oklahoma region will come together to embrace the benefits of walking. Walk to School Day not only promotes physical fitness but also instills valuable lessons of pedestrian safety in our youth.

Public Service Announcements (PSAs): ACOG, partnering with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office (OHSO) created Watch for Me OK, a public awareness campaign that seeks to educate the public on the rules of the road and aims to keep Central Oklahoma residents safe while traveling. Throughout Pedestrian Safety Month, a series of shareable PSAs will be posted on Facebook, Instagram and X featuring real-life stories, safety tips, and reminders for drivers and pedestrians to be cautious and considerate on the road.

The Street Project Documentary: On October 12, join ACOG, Watch for Me OK and OHSO, for the screening of The Street Project Documentary which highlights the troubling trend of increasing deaths of pedestrian and bicyclists on American streets and what factors and policies contribute to the current situation. Followed by a 20–30-minute discussion with professionals in urban planning, public health, law enforcement, and city government on what decisions and changes can be made to make streets safer for all.

Walktober Week: Instead of driving during October 16-22, we’re asking Central Oklahomans to walk, or use transit as much as possible. To get out and enjoy your neighborhood or community, ACOG is sponsoring the Walktober Week Scavenger Hunt.

For more information about Pedestrian Safety Month, including a calendar of events and safety tips, please visit acogok.org.