With spring officially here, there are two safety concerns the Chatham-Kent police are hoping to bring to your attention.
First, there are the dangers that exist near streams, rivers, ponds and lakes around this time of year. Children and pets particularily should stay away from the edges of all waterways.
Warmer temperatures, rain, melting snow and ice contribute to higher, faster flowing water in our rivers. Slippery and unstable banks and extremely cold water temperatures can also lead to very hazardous conditions close to any body of water. This also contributes to thin ice on ponds and lakes. Keep off them this time of year.
You may also notice an increase in car/deer collisions at this time of year as deer become more active.
Ensure your headlights are on at dawn and dusk and keep your eyes on the road, scanning the sides of the road as well.. When there is no oncoming traffic, switch to high beams to better reflect the eyes of deer on or near the roadway. Be especially aware of any distractions that might take your eyes off the road, even if only momentarily, such as cell phones, adjusting the radio, eating or passenger activities. Watch for “Deer Crossing” signs that mark commonly-travelled areas, and be aware that deer typically cross between areas of cover, such as woods or where roads divide agricultural fields from woods. If you see a deer crossing the road ahead, slow down immediately and proceed with caution until you are past the crossing point. Deer usually travel in groups, so if you see one deer, there are likely to be others. Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten deer away. Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles to deter deer, as these devices have not been proven to reduce car/deer collisions. Do not swerve to miss a deer. Brake and stay in your lane. Losing control of your vehicle, crossing into another lane, hitting an oncoming vehicle or leaving the roadway and hitting another obstacle such as a tree or a pole is likely to be much more serious than hitting a deer.
If you hit a deer, stop at the scene, pull your car off to the side of the road if possible and call police. Do not touch the animal or get too close. And remember to always wear your seatbelt.
To see the full article, go here http://www.thepost.on.ca/2015/03/25/safety-tips-for-spring-time
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