Sheppard promotes pedestrian, cyclist safety

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Sheppard's safety office promoted bicycle and pedestrian safety this week for the critical days of summer. It is important that the community is aware of safety rules and abides by them to promote the safety of everyone on base.

"The most important precaution pedestrians and cyclists can take is be aware of their surroundings. The safest place to walk or run is on a track away from vehicle traffic," Master Sgt. Daryl Gurunian, 82nd Training Wing Safety superintendent, said.

Sergeant Gurunian said most base drivers expect pedestrians to be walking about the installation. There hasn't been a trend of incidents on or off the installation

"Wearing bright colored clothing during reduced visibility hours such as reflective material, which is mandatory on base, will increase the chances that drivers will see you. If cycling, a helmet is to be worn and bicycles should be equipped with a headlight as well as a flashing light in the rear," he said.

Sergeant Gurunian said cyclists are to ride with the traffic flow and observe all traffic control devices. When riding on sidewalks, cyclist must yield to pedestrians. Bicycles are prohibited from operating on golf cart paths and fairways.

"Bicyclists may ride on the installation streets and must obey all traffic laws just as if they were operating a vehicle. Bicycle headlamps, rear lights and rear reflectors must meet state requirements," the sergeant said.

When running, if a track is not available and whenever possible, pedestrians and joggers should always walk or run on the opposing traffic side of the street, the sergeant said.

Headphones are prohibited on base streets and sidewalks. They are only permitted on the base running track and during official running or biking events where the streets have been closed to vehicles and traffic guards have been posted.
 
Sergeant Gurunian said to help maintain situational awareness, cyclists and pedestrians should never wear headphones while in a traffic environment as they will be unable to hear approaching vehicles, honking horns or emergency response vehicles. 

"Always be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant in case the need arises to take evasive action from an oncoming motorist. Pedestrians should always use sidewalks where available and avoid walking on any street regularly used by vehicle traffic," Sergeant Gurunian said.