Be visible during hours of darkness Published Oct. 20, 2010 By Sam Spooner and Heather Winters 17th Training Wing Safety Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Daylight savings time ends Nov. 7 and with winter rolling in, it's time to stop and think about how visible you are to others during hours of darkness. According to the Commander's Item of Interest #9, Reflective Belts/ Vests letter from Jan. 6, "All personnel shall wear reflective belts or reflective vests when exposed to a traffic environment during hours of darkness, periods of reduced visibility or inclement weather (such as fog, rain, sleet or snow) to enhance their visibility." A traffic environment is anywhere vehicle and pedestrian interaction may occur. Reflective belts are also mandatory when crossing a roadway at a crosswalk where there is no controlled flow of vehicle movement such as a stop sign. In addition to the reflective belt or vest, wear jogging shoes or backpacks that have reflective strips already integrated. We also recommend pedestrians carry a flashlight to help drivers notice them clearly and quickly. For safety and security, walk or exercise in places that are well populated and well lit. It's best to stay out of traffic, but those forced to walk, jog or run on roadways, should always do so facing traffic and stay close to the edge of the roadway. This allows pedestrians to react to oncoming traffic and drivers who may not see them. If off-base, avoid listening to headphones while walking, jogging or running on roadways. It impairs the ability to react to surrounding dangers. On-base, headphones with both ear pieces are only permitted on the running track. A single earpiece may be worn while on Perimeter Road. Please take the time to put yourself in the seat of the driver approaching you. Have you reduced your risk and are you easily visible?
