HONOLULU — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recognizes October as National Pedestrian Safety Month. The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is joining the nationwide effort to remind everyone on Oʻahu’s roads that pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Slowing down, staying alert and looking out for one another can help prevent crashes and save lives.

As part of its Safer Roads, Together initiative, HPD will continue traffic enforcement, education and outreach throughout October, with an increased focus on pedestrian safety.

HPD’s District 3 Community Policing Team will also participate in a pedestrian safety awareness campaign with iHeartMedia to reinforce safe behaviors and the shared responsibility of drivers and pedestrians.

“Every person walking along or crossing our roads is someone’s family member, friend or loved one,” said Honolulu Police Deputy Chief Brandon Nakasato. “Drivers need to slow down, stay focused and be prepared to stop, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. We also encourage pedestrians to stay alert and make sure drivers see them before crossing. Keeping people safe on our roads is a shared responsibility.”

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Speeding, impaired and distracted driving, reckless driving and failure to yield can have devastating consequences.

HPD reminds drivers to:

• Slow down and follow posted speed limits, especially in areas with pedestrian traffic.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.
• Yield to pedestrians as required by law and allow them to cross safely.
• Watch for pedestrians near intersections, crosswalks, schools, bus stops, parks and other areas with heavy foot traffic.
• Use extra caution at night and during poor weather or low-visibility conditions.
• Never drive impaired.
• Never assume a pedestrian sees or hears your vehicle.

Pedestrians can also take steps to reduce their risk:

• Use sidewalks and marked crossings when available.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions when crossing the street.
• Look for approaching vehicles and make sure drivers see you before crossing.
• Use extra caution at night and in areas with limited visibility.
• Continue watching for vehicles while crossing and never assume a driver sees you.

HPD will continue high-visibility traffic enforcement, community education and outreach throughout October and beyond. Whether driving, walking, bicycling or using another form of transportation, everyone can make choices that help protect themselves and others.

Safer Roads, Together is an HPD-led traffic safety initiative in partnership with the City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services, Honolulu Emergency Medical Services and the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation. Together, the agencies are working to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries through education, engineering, community engagement and strategic enforcement.

One safe decision can prevent a tragedy. Slow down, stay alert and look out for one another. For more information about Safer Roads, Together, visit www.honolulupd.org/safer-roads-together.