‘Watch for Me CT' Reminds Pedestrians About Street Safety

Saturday was a beautiful night for baseball at Dunkin' Donuts Park.

While the Yard Goats got the win, the evening was also a teaching moment for fans enjoying the wonderful weather.

Representatives of the program “Watch for Me CT” took advantage of the crowds, rewarding those who crossed the street safely.

“Even when there is a walk sign, you still want to look and make sure all the cars see you and they stop,” said program coordinator Amy Watkins.

Connecticut’s Department of Transportation started “Watch for Me CT” through the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in 2017 to address the issue of pedestrian safety.

“People like free stuff so they’re excited, but we’re hoping to give them that message to be safe and the next time they come to an intersection and we’re not there, they’ll think, ‘oh yeah, maybe this time I’ll be extra careful and make sure I get home safe,’” said Watkins.

“Watch for Me CT” said each year more than 1,500 people are hit by cars in Connecticut.

Last year, that led to 67 pedestrian deaths.

A mother of three was happy hear safety reminder as she and her son crossed, “It’s nerve wracking with little kids,” said Yary Colon.

While North Have siblings Sophie and Quinn were excited for their new swag, they got the message.

“When you’re a kid, you should always be with an adult when you’re crossing the road,” reiterated Sophie.

“You should look both ways,” reminded Quinn.

Hartford Police Lt. Anthony Pia has seen his share of crashes as the commander of the traffic unit. He said in many cases, pedestrians are to blame.

“Especially when the weather is nice and events like this. It’s an opportunity to get to a lot of people at one time when they’re here together,” said Lt. Pia.

Police said those on foot and behind the wheel both need to pay attention.

“Everyone wants to get home at the end of the day to their families and we want that too,” said Watkins.

Practicing safety is the most practical gift kids can give their mom’s this holiday.

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