ACOG COMMEMORATES PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MONTH

October 9-November 17, 2024

The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) is excited to announce its commemoration of Pedestrian Safety Month, spanning from October 9 to November 17, 2024. This initiative, aimed at raising awareness and promoting safety for pedestrians, comes at a time when pedestrian-related accidents and fatalities while showing a slight decrease in the last few years remain a pressing concern for communities in Central Oklahoma.

Pedestrian Safety Month aims to increase awareness of the importance of pedestrian safety for all citizens, including children, seniors, and individuals with mobility challenges. With increasing urban development and an emphasis on healthier lifestyles, it’s crucial to ensure that pedestrians can travel safely throughout their neighborhoods and communities.

“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 and likewise for drivers to exhibit extra caution in lowlight areas. 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.

Highlights of Pedestrian Safety Month include:

• 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 Twitter featuring real-life stories, safety tips, and reminders for drivers and pedestrians to be cautious and considerate on the road.
• Walk or Roll to School – October 9: On this special day, students, parents, and educators from some schools in Central Oklahoma region are encouraged to come together to embrace the benefits of walking. Imagine the streets bustling with young adventurers, making their way to school, sharing laughter, and fostering friendships along the way. Walk or Roll to School Day not only promotes physical fitness but also instills valuable lessons of pedestrian safety in our youth.
• Screening of 3 Seconds Behind the Wheel Safety Documentary – October 28: After the success of last year’s screening of the Street Project, join ACOG, Watch for Me OK and Oklahoma Highway Safety Office to watch the documentary, 3 Seconds Behind the Wheel, on October 28 at 6 p.m. at the Ronald Norick Downtown Library in Oklahoma City. This film follows the lives of eight drivers over 6 months using in-car cameras and tracking technology to monitor the often-hidden behavior of distracted drivers. Why three seconds? That’s how long it takes to drive across a football field, send a message or choose a song.
• Sponsor of the Joltin’ Joe 5K – November 17: The Joltin’ Joe 5k, held in memorial of Joe Warfield, is family-friend, community event intended to raise awareness about distracted driving and create a movement for change. Free safety resources and information will be available for participants and guests.

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