Cork pubs to hand out hi-vis jackets to promote pedestrian visibility

A new road-safety campaign will see Cork pubs handing out hi-vis vests to customers to promote pedestrian visibility.

The ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ campaign has been launched by Cork County Council, in partnership with the Cork branch of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, as part of Road Safety Awareness Week 2024, which focuses on pedestrian safety.

Hi-vis vests are being supplied by the local authority and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to licensed premises across County Cork, and posters highlighting the ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ message will also be displayed prominently.

In the first nine months of this year, some 24 pedestrians have lost their lives on Ireland’s roads, with two of those tragedies occurring in Cork.

The Mayor of Co Cork, Fianna Fáil councillor Joe Carroll, said the council was encouraging all road users to be safe and seen, regardless of whether they are walking, cycling, or driving this autumn.

“Our roads are shared spaces, and we need to remember that whenever we get behind the wheel, get on a bike, or walk out the door,” he said.

“We’re all equally responsible for road safety. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable.

“Last year, five pedestrians lost their lives in Cork and two people have been killed here so far this year,” Mr Carroll said. “This campaign aims to highlight the importance of being seen when you’re out walking, especially late at night.”

The pedestrian road safety tips are:

• If there is a footpath, you must use it or walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic;
• Always wear bright, high-visibility clothing when walking during the day and reflective clothing when walking at night;
• Always carry a torch when walking at night;
• Always be aware of other road users;
• Never walk on the road after consuming alcohol as this is very dangerous at any time of day or night;
• Before you go out socially, you should always arrange how to get home safely.