Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Joining Forces campaign highlights pedestrian safety on this first day of school

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deputies are Joining Forces with other regional law enforcement partners focused on reducing vehicle versus pedestrian crashes beginning today, the first day of school for Washoe County School District students.

Between August 9^th and August 25^th, northern Nevada law enforcement agencies are dedicating extra traffic patrols and are increasing enforcement of the state’s pedestrian safety laws. Funding for these extra patrols is made possible by a Joining Forces grant received from the Nevada Department of Public Safety/Office of Traffic Safety.

All road users, drivers, and pedestrians should keep these basic safety suggestions in mind:

Pedestrians

• Use intersections and marked mid-block crosswalks only
• Between dusk and dawn, wear bright clothing or accessories that can be seen at night
• Continue to look for oncoming traffic until the other side of the road is reached
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street

Drivers

• Obey speed limits and know when conditions warrant even slower speeds, including streets that are not well lit
• Check intersections and mid-block crosswalks for waiting pedestrians, and yield to them
• Make eye contact with pedestrians waiting to cross the street

No matter what form of transportation you use, take responsibility for others around you and respect their right to use the road. Make sure that you are predictable, alert, and focused on your safety and on the safety of those around you.

Joining Forces is a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement program aimed at reducing injuries and crashes through statewide enforcement in the areas of: DUI, speed, distracted driving, seat belt and pedestrian safety. The goal of these enforcement campaigns is to save lives by increasing public awareness about the dangers of making poor choices while driving. 

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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