Mayo County Council launch 'Shine Bright, Stay Alive' road safety campaign

Mayo County Council’s Road Safety Office have launched a road safety campaign to promote and encourage the use of high vis vests called “Shine Bright, Stay Alive”.

The Road Safety Office is shining a light on road safety to promote the use of high vis vests. By simply wearing a high vis vest, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of accidents especially during low light hours.

People are reminded that dark coloured clothing and coats may look chic, but at night or on cloudy days, they can make pedestrians almost invisible. From January to date, 31 pedestrians and ten cyclists have lost their lives on Ireland's roads.

Mayo's Road Safety Office encourages everyone to embrace this simple yet powerful safety measure to make our roads safer for all.

Frances Mitchell, Road Safety Officer, said: “Pedestrians can go unnoticed as they simply cannot be seen. By wearing reflective clothing or attaching light reflectors to bags or clothing accidents can be avoided and lives saved. You can even attach light reflectors to your dog’s lead to help you both be visible to other road users.

“Cyclists should have lights and reflectors on their bikes but can further enhance their visibility using additional reflectors.

“For drivers it is important that you carry out winter checks on your vehicles to make sure your tyres have sufficient thread and are correctly inflated, lights should be in good working order and remember to switch them on,” she said.

Pedestrians are also encouraged to follow safety tips and don’t assume a driver sees you when out walking. The tips include wearing bright or reflective clothing or shoes when walking at night as drivers can't avoid what they can't see and avoid using or wearing headphones as you need to be able to hear approaching vehicles. If you do use headphones, run with the volume low and just one earbud in. Don't wear headphones or talk on a mobile phone while crossing the street.

Motorists are also encouraged to follow these safety tips including watching out for pedestrians especially at night and early morning. Expect and slow for pedestrians in popular walking areas and drive at cautious speeds in rainy weather and in low-light areas.

Mayo County Council Offices across the county have been stocked with High Vis vests for those who wish to acquire them on a first come-first served basis free of charge.