State kicks off 9th annual pedestrian safety month

HAWAII (HawaiiNewsNow) - This year's pedestrian safety month kicked off a proclamation ceremony on Thursday held by several state, federal and community leaders..

All of August is supposed to center public focus on the 22 pedestrians killed on Hawaii roads this year and how to utilize best practices to prevent further deaths. Officials say there has been an increase in pedestrian crashes in both the early morning and late night hours when visibility is low.

As part of Pedestrian Safety Month, the Walk Wise Hawaii program will be offering free clip-on lights and reflective safety bands at public community events throughout the islands.

Statistically, not paying attention in crosswalks, jaywalking, and not being visible when walking at night are all high-risk dangers for pedestrians, according to officials.

Drivers are also advised to avoid interacting with their cellphones while driving, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and adhere to speed limit signs.

At the proclamation ceremony, several Girl Scouts of Hawaii received pedestrian safety patches for completing service projects that educated residents on safe pedestrian practices.

"As thousands of students head back to school, we must renew our commitment to looking out for our keiki, kupuna, and all pedestrians on our roadways," said Gov. David Ige, in a statement. "Hawaii is the first state in the nation to dedicate an entire month to pedestrian safety," Ige said.

"Education and awareness are key to keeping our pedestrians safe."