With the advent of warmer temperatures and things starting to open back up because of the pandemic, lots of people are expected to do outdoor activities.

Jefferson Police Chief Mark Clouse says there are more walking trails in town that have been created which means more people will be bicycling, while also walking and running. He reminds motorists to be more aware of people biking and likewise, bicyclists need to be constantly making eye contact with motorists to acknowledge each other sees the other.

“Intersections, if you’re going to turn in front of traffic or anything like that, you want to make sure that the person in that car sees you. So if you and I have eye contact – I’m on a bike and you’re in your car – and we have eye contact, I know that you see me.”

As for those walking or running, Clouse offers these alternatives to being in the street. 

“If there’s a bike lane available on the side of that street, use that bike lane. If there’s a sidewalk there, run on the sidewalk. The main thing is that clothing that bright clothing. A lot of people have the flashing strobe lights. Just something to make sure that the motoring public knows you’re there.”

Clouse adds that there will be increased amounts of people back outside as the temperatures continue to warm up.