Updated: Tue Sep. 06 2011 17:51:10
ctvedmonton.ca
Edmonton police are launching a new campaign asking Edmontonians to use marked crosswalks, instead of jaywalking.
This comes after three people have died this year while jaywalking or crossing the street against a traffic signal. Along with the three fatalities, two others were seriously injured.
Police kicked off the new initiative at three locations that have been identified as having a high number of jaywalking incidents. Officers displayed off some asphalt art, which shows a woman who appears to have been struck by a vehicle.
"What we're hoping is when people view the art and see the message they'll think twice about taking the shortcut across the street. And they will use the appropriate marked crossing walk," said Acting Sgt. Jerrid Maze with the Edmonton Police Service.
Police say the decals will show images of people who reflect the make-up of different communities. Some decals will be printed in different languages, but all will have the same message -- one that most mothers of little children know well.
"It's important to always use a crosswalk even if it's a longer route in the end, it's a safer route," said Kemika Richards.
In the first six months of this year, 724 pedestrians were charged with jaywalking and crossing against a traffic signal. The fine for crossing a road illegally is up to $250.
With files from David Ewasuk