Warmer weather means more people a re out and about, creating more traffic both on wheels and on foot.

Perry Police Department School Resource Officer Pat Jans says while they encourage people to get out and be active, it’s also important to use common sense.

“Being aware of your surroundings and as you’re driving, as you’re walking, it’s always fun to be out there with friends and family doing those activities together but yes, you need to be mindful of your surroundings and aware of other people and vehicles that are going around and by you” says Jans.

Officer Jans says there are more distractions today than ever before and things like electronics can cause safety concerns, regardless of how you’re traveling.

“When you’re distracted, you definitely aren’t paying attention to what you’re doing, whether it be walking, riding or driving a car.  So I could caution people to put their devices away for a while when they’re doing these things.  Right now for vehicular traffic, it’s not a primary offense in the state of Iowa to allow police officers to pull you over but if there is an accident or another situation that would allow us an interaction with people, that is something that we could start looking at.”

As a reminder, Officer Jans says those on bicycles, skateboards, roller blades and scooters are required to follow the same traffic laws as drivers in a motor vehicle and are also subject to citations and other consequences.