The recent cold stretch in February seems to finally be releasing its grip on our area.

While it is likely that there are still several cold and snowy days ahead, this is a good time to provide a reminder of some safe driving habits as we move into warmer weather. I have already seen many of our residents and visitors walking through our community taking advantage of the better weather. I know that we are all anxious to get back outside, but we must do it safely.

Some basic safety tips are:

• If you are driving a vehicle, make sure you are stopping for pedestrians within a crosswalk.
• If you are a pedestrian, prior to entering a crosswalk, give motorists enough time to stop to allow you to safely cross. I always encourage pedestrians to attempt to make eye contact with the driver.
• Wear you seatbelt.
• Watch your speed. It is very easy to exceed the speed limit, especially when the weather is nice.
• Do not drink or use drugs prior to driving.
• Avoid distracted driving. Taking your eyes off of the road for even a split second can have tragic consequences.

As the warmer weather settles in to stay, and more drivers and pedestrians take to the roads and sidewalks, these basic safety tips can go a long way to keeping everyone safe.