Reflective vest allowed not to carry

In March 2018, an amendment to the SDA began to apply in Russia, according to which every driver should have a reflective vest in the car and wear it if necessary. Here is the verbatim text of clause 2.3.4 of the rules: "In the event of a forced stop of a vehicle or a traffic accident outside the settlements at night or in conditions of limited visibility while on the road or curbside, wear a jacket, vest or wrap with strips of retro-reflective material that meet the requirements of GOST 12.4.281—2014."

Various assumptions and interpretations immediately appeared in the media about how and when, due to the lack of a reflective vest with reflective fabric in the car, traffic police officers will fine drivers. In this regard, the head of the Duma Committee on Labor and Social Policy, Yaroslav Nilov, prepared and sent a request addressed to the head of the traffic police General Mikhail Cherenkov, in which he asked for clarification: did the patrol traffic police have the right to require this driver to present this vest when checking documents. And also to answer the question: what sanctions may follow if the vest in the car is still not there.

The other day from the traffic police came to a response to the request of the deputy Nilov. In it, the first deputy chief of the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate of the Russian Federation, General Vladimir Shvetsov, clearly and unequivocally stated that traffic police have no right to require the driver of a vehicle to present a vest or jacket with strips of reflective material when checking documents or performing other administrative procedures. "Administrative liability for the lack of a vest in a vehicle or driver is not provided."

And since no one has the right to check and punish for the lack of a vest in the car or on the driver, then, in fact, it is allowed not to carry retro-reflective clothes in the car. Another thing is that any sensible driver will take care of this accessory without anyone else's instructions and, if necessary, will put it on himself - simply obeying the instinct of self-preservation.

Vests for pilgrims against abuses

The Traffic Subsector of the Civil Guard of Pontevedra launched the campaign of the General Directorate of Traffic on Road Traffic Prevention that will take place until the end of next November in the autonomous community of Galicia.

During the day yesterday, members of the Traffic detachments of the Civil Guard of Vilaboa and O Porriño delivered several reflective vests to the pilgrims who traveled the Camino de Santiago at their intersections or coincidences with the road network of their respective demarcations.

As reported by the armed institute, among the objectives of this campaign, which aims to prevent road accidents, is the distribution of high visibility vests among pedestrians, especially older people, walkers, and pilgrims.

The intention, says the Civil Guard in a statement, is to make pedestrians aware that they have to be seen on the road using the reflective vest, even during the day and encourage behavioral habits to create safe behaviors, in the understanding that the family environment of the older pedestrian must convey the danger of walking without a vest.

In the campaign, special attention will also be given to drivers, making sure they make use of the high visibility vest whenever they get off the vehicle and occupy the road or the sidewalk on interurban roads.

The traffic detachment of the Civil Guard of O Porriño monitors the southern part of the Vigo area, so the campaign extends along the path of the Camino de Santiago.

The high number of outrages mainly in rural has led Traffic to put this campaign to stop these accidents.

Visibility is one of the fundamental causes since the absence of reflective vests prevents vehicles traveling through secondary roads from noticing the presence of pedestrians, those who make the road as pilgrims and those who invade the road to cross.

Debut in a kayak in the northern waters

When sailing out into the open waters, especially during the "canoe debut", one should follow some basic safety rules. What is worth remembering when going on a kayak trip in Norwegian waters?

Necessary equipment

Life jacket. This is a must-have item for kayaking. It should have fluorescent colors, reflective tapes, and pockets for small items, such as a penknife or cell phone.

Inflatable paddle pen case. It helps to get stability when climbing back into the kayak after falling into the water. Particularly useful for inexperienced canoeists.

Inflatable paddle cover.

Paddle rope. It is used to attach the paddle to the kayak so that it does not float away. However, it can cause some discomfort during rowing because it tends to twist and get tangled.

Bilge pump. It removes water from inside the kayak.

Whistle. Useful when calling for help. It is better to make a whistle signal than to shout.

Knife. In the event of an accident on the water, it is easy to get caught in something or get stuck (e.g. in the paddle rope, if used). Then a knife is necessary to clear the way.

Mobile phone or handheld VHF radio. It is worth having one of them with you, regardless of whether you are rowing in the company or alone. It's best to protect your equipment with a waterproof cover.

Flashlight or LED lamp. To ensure better visibility in the dark.

Radar reflector. Prop especially useful in waters with heavy boat traffic. Such an object made of aluminum or plastic guarantees detectability on the radars of larger units.

The police action is starting. Many more officers will appear on the roads

From today to Sunday, November 3, policemen will carry out activities related to the All Saints' period. Uniforms will be particularly visible on access roads to cities and around cemeteries. There will also be many more officers on the road.

On Thursday, October 31, police throughout the country began the annual "Znicz" campaign. The activities are related to the All Saints' period, during which many people set off to get to the cemeteries where the graves of their relatives are located. This is associated with increased traffic on the roads and pedestrians around the cemetery. The policemen will look after their safety, there will be much more patrols than usual.

The police will be responsible for ensuring the safety of road users. Uniforms will be particularly visible near cemeteries, where they are to direct traffic, help drivers navigate in these areas, or show them parking spaces. This is particularly important because the changed traffic organization will apply in most of the necropolis. More patrols will also appear on the main routes, in this case, officers will be less noticeable because they are mainly to move in unmarked patrol cars.

This is to allow more effective elimination of road pirates who, through their driving style, pose a threat to other road users. Drivers must also take into account increased controls. It will be checked whether they comply with speed limits, whether travelers have their seat belts fastened and children are transported in safety seats, as well as the technical condition of the vehicles and the sobriety of the drivers.

"The All Saints' period is not only a time of reflection and reflection but also a time of travel to the graves of loved ones distant even by several hundred kilometers from places of residence. Long and tiring travel time, traffic jams forming on roads, often unfavorable weather conditions favor fatigue. Therefore, police officers will ensure the safety of all road users. At the same time, we call for careful and reasonable driving," says subinsp. Renata Laszczka-Rusek from the Provincial Police Headquarters in Lublin.

Policemen will also pay attention to pedestrians and cyclists. The turn of October and November is a period in which atmospheric conditions are very variable and darkness falls faster and faster. Therefore, these people must be visible to drivers. A reflective vest, keyring, headband, or even an ordinary flashlight will make it possible to be noticed by drivers in time when driving on a dimly lit road, thus avoiding injury or death in an accident. It is also important to place them: reflectors should be worn at knees, hands, around the middle of the chest and back.

Sunport refurbishment nearing the three-year mark

On a recent weekday afternoon, men in hard hats and neon safety vests climbed up and down ladders just outside the arrival doors at the Albuquerque International Sunport.

Work crews are a now-familiar presence at the state's largest airport – and travelers may see more of the same for the next few months as the facility's "Terminal Improvement Project" approaches the three-year mark.

Airport officials say the installation of lights is the last remaining piece of a facility update that former Mayor Richard Berry said would put "the best possible face on Albuquerque we can."

The contractor, Flintco, has until the end of February to finish the job – that’s according to the 20th change order approved for a project that is now 1½ years behind schedule and about $2.5 million over the initial budget.

Albuquerque aviation director Nyika Allen blames the delays in part on inadequate project "scoping" – which she says is the purview of the city and the architect – and problems with Flintco's electrical subcontractor. But she said the Sunport has the wherewithal to cover the price increase and that the work has had little effect on the traveling public.

"No one likes to see the ceiling open, that’s for sure,” she said in a recent interview. "But otherwise we've been 100% open."

The work started in early 2017. The objective was to "refurbish and upgrade the ticketing, baggage claim and exterior areas of the terminal," according to a Feb. 24, 2017, Sunport news release. It was to take 15 months and cost $30 million.

But construction time has since more than doubled and the cost has risen to $32.4 million.

Allen said the city bears some responsibility since it should have anticipated at least a few of the changes ultimately built into the project.

The first change order, for example, was requested in May 2017, less than two months into the job. It totaled more than $900,000 and pertained primarily to the facility's stucco.

Renovation plans included new, larger windows on the arrivals level, which would require some stuccoing around them. But the project architect told the city in a memo that it was "next to impossible" to match new stucco surrounding windows to the rest of the facade, which was already inconsistent due to age, damage and previous patch repairs. Also, crews found "extensive unanticipated water and rust damage to the existing structural studs and stucco finish associated with the portico columns" on the second level.

The city ultimately approved stuccoing the entire north facade and portico entrances.

Though Allen did not take over the Sunport until 2018 – as an appointee of Mayor Tim Keller – she cited the stucco as a significant issue that should have been addressed during the project's scoping phase.

"You can't just patch stucco in a tiny spot; you need to do the stucco on that side," she said. "I don't know why that wasn't thought about."

But changes to the scope of work was not the only problem.

Flintco’s electrical contractor "essentially walked off the job" and had to be replaced, Allen said.

And the electrical contractor left problems in its wake.

In seeking one of its timetable extensions, Flintco's Rebecca Masters said some of the original electrical contractor's work had to be redone. She blamed the company for "disordered materials and unsatisfactory work that requires extensive reinstallation or reordering of lighting fixtures and accessories," according to an Aug. 9, 2019, memo to the project's architects obtained by the Journal through a public records request.

A Flintco representative acknowledged that replacing the original electrical contractor created delays but said the project also included "unforeseen conditions" and work beyond the original outline.

"Throughout the project, Flintco has remained flexible and responsive in accommodating the operational requirements of the airport and the traveling public. The vast majority of the project has been completed and remains open," Steve Eikanger, Flintco vice president and area manager, said in an email, adding that the company was currently waiting for delivery of the last set of decorative light fixtures. "This important infrastructure project is slated for completion early next year (2020) and will deliver an exceptional result to the City of Albuquerque."

Allen said the airport has not decided whether to pursue any penalties against Flintco, saying she would evaluate the options once the project is finally finished. In a push for completion, Allen said she had Flintco personnel establish an on-site office and meet weekly with the Sunport staff.

"I think there were a lot of unforeseen circumstances that also had to deal with, (but the contractor's performance) wasn't great," she said. "I think they are working with us now, but I think we should expect a lot from people who are doing public projects and the bar should be set high for these contractors."

Allen said the Sunport has the self-generated revenue to cover the project. Half comes from a capital fund that airlines pay into, and a half from passenger facility charges, she said.

Little declares Tuesday as Idaho School Zone Safety Day

The following is a news release from AAA Idaho.

Governor Brad Little has proclaimed Tuesday, September 17 to be Idaho School Zone Safety Day, and traffic safety partners from across the state have joined forces to help spread the word.

AAA, the Idaho Transportation Department, and 26 law enforcement agencies throughout the Gem State are participating in the effort.

"We're grateful that the Governor has helped to call attention to this important issue," says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. "Every year, tragedy strikes in school zones across the country, as inexperienced young pedestrians interact with speeding or distracted drivers. We want to keep it from happening in Idaho."

Participating law enforcement agencies will emphasize school zone enforcement on that day, and in some locations, officers will be on hand to greet students as they arrive at school. ITD will also display school zone safety messages on electronic reader boards around the state.

"Safety isn't an event, it's a process," Conde said. "Law enforcement can't always be there to remind people to do the right thing. Parents, teachers, students, and drivers all need to work together to make school zones safe for everyone."

Children who are walking to school or getting dropped off should never dart between cars.

Parents should remind them to always use a crosswalk if one is available, and make sure that hoods, hats, and headphones don't prevent them from seeing or hearing approaching vehicles as they cross.

Children also need to wear bright or reflective clothing or reflective vest if they'll be walking in the dark.

Drivers should strictly observe signs, flashing lights, and signals from crossing guards.

Never speed or drive distracted in a school zone or residential neighborhood, and never overtake a stopped bus with flashing lights – it's dangerous and illegal. If possible, take a route that avoids school zones altogether.

Middletown residents observe Fire Dept. tribute during Dec. 16th Committee meeting

Middletown Township residents, among other items, witnessed the annual proclamation of the winter holiday season's "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, as well as a brief appreciation ceremony for the local fire department, at the Township Committee's Dec. 16th meeting.

The meeting began with the appreciation ceremony, during which Mayor Anthony Perry presented a $ 6,700 check to the fire dept.'S leadership, representing the proceeds from the Mayor's 5K race fundraiser that took place in October. During the ceremony, Mayor Perry thanked Recreation Dept Director Janet Dellett for helping pave the way for the Mayor's 5K.

"Early on, she came to me and said 'I think Middletown should join the Mayor's Wellness Campaign initiative', and mentioned that we were one of the few towns in Monmouth County that does not participate," Mayor Perry said, adding that the Mayor's 5K, organized as a firefighter's fundraiser was his way of getting Middletown to join the initiative.

The Mayor then said that he took part in the 5K himself and joked that there he discovered that his athletic abilities were not what he hoped them to be. You could hear the audience chuckle when he continued; "I'm thinking I'm 29 years old; I'm going to breeze through this thing, "he said." Well, let me tell you, I almost died out there."

Mayor Perry then said he was honored to present the proceeds from the 5K fundraiser to the fire dept. As a way of paying it forward for the good work, they do for the community, as well as a way of showing the community's trust of its local firefighters – and hopes to do more of these events in the future.

"This wouldn't be possible without the incredible staff and all the supporters of our first responders," he said. "You guys put your lives on the line every day, the least we can do is run in support of you. I know this money is going to be put to good use. We will build on that and continue to do this."

After the ceremony, the township committee approved the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" proclamation, which launches the annual program of enhanced law enforcement efforts against drunk driving that happens each winter holiday season.

Following this came a brief talk by Township Planning Director Sanyogita Chavan about a study recently conducted with the support of the US Defense Dept., as well as various state and county-level government agencies, on potential engineering projects in roughly about a dozen areas near properties owned by Naval Weapons Station Earle, especially in areas located along the Raritan and Sandy Hook Bays.

The purpose of these potential projects is to make these areas less vulnerable, and more resilient, to sea-level rise, coastal storms, and other coastal disasters; and these projects consist of dune/marsh restoration, shoreline erosion protection, and stormwater management, Chavan said.

Chavan asked the Township Committee to pass a resolution to endorse initial plans to re-engineer these areas and mentioned that four of these areas are in Middletown

"It's not just something that's on paper," she said. "We're going to go ahead to get the monies to do the projects."

After this came township committee comments, which opened with Committeewoman Patricia Snell talking about an event at Thorne Middle School by a group called "Wreaths Across America," which lays wreaths in hundreds of locations throughout the Northeastern U.S.

"The Thorne students were lined up across the driveway," Snell said. "As a school, they raised over $ 4,800 for this cause. Wreaths Across America is a very worthy organization."

Snell then mentioned her experience of a recent concert by the NJ State Youth Orchestra at Middletown High School South.

"If you close your eyes, you would have sworn you were at Carnegie Hall," Snell said.

Committeeman Kevin Settembrino then followed up with commenting in jest about Mayor Perry's athletic skills.

"I don't want anyone to think the Mayor stopped being athletic after the 5K," Settembrino said. "This past Saturday, he was seen at the dodge ball tournament with the township staff, and he did a great job."

Settembrino then mentioned that this year's Christmas Tree Lighting featured a larger turnout, as well as a larger tree, compared to last year.

"It just keeps getting better and better every year," he said.

Committeeman Rick Hibell thanked Middletown's Fire Dept. chiefs and volunteers for the work they do in serving Middletown.

Meanwhile, Mayor Perry thanked everyone on the Middletown Township Staff for their work and commitment during his last year as Mayor.

I'm humbled by everyone's dedication and professionalism, "Mayor Perry said." I could not have done it without our great staff. Your success is the success of all of us."

Mayor Perry then closed with additional reflections on his past year as Mayor.

"It has been a real honor for me to serve as the youngest Mayor in this town's history," he said. "You were all met as I promised, with an open mind and an open heart. We've accomplished a lot."

Last but not least came the meeting's public comment portion, in which Tom Gaffey, a resident from Middletown's Locust section, located near Atlantic Highlands, suggested that the Township Committee pass a municipal ordinance requiring runners and bicyclists to wear reflective clothing from one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise; and mentioned how he recently nearly ran over a bicyclist while driving in his neighborhood, but managed to miss the bicyclist at the last minute.

"It's not going to be a fortunate incident every time," Gaffey said.

Mayor Perry responded by saying that he and the rest of the Township Committee will consider weighing that as a potential option among others.

How Runners Can Stay Visible as the Daylight Hours Shrink

Welcome to the Running newsletter! Every Saturday morning, we email runners with news, advice and some motivation to help you get up and running. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.

Dear Readers,

Now that it officially falls in the United States and the hours of daylight available for running are getting shorter, you may be starting or finishing a run in the dark.

Since I care about every one of you and don't want you to get hit by a car or cyclist, I hope you're making yourself visible while on those pre-dawn or post-sunset training runs.

Time to update your gear? Here are three ways to light yourself up.

Light

The most obvious thing to do is put lights on yourself. Headlamps will make you visible and light up the path in front of you too (and some trail races require that you have one). You can also wear the Noxgear Tracer360 to wrap your torso in the light; in the same way, Knuckle Lights wrap around your, well, knuckles.

You don't need to go too high tech for lights, either. I've used blinking lights designed for bikes and dog collars, and my mom has run wearing a Christmas light necklace she found at a drugstore.

Reflection

Most running shoes and jackets come with small reflective strips of reflective material, but you'll want more than that. You can buy everything from reflective vests to running belts to wrist or ankle cuffs.

Last winter, after I stopped at my local running store for water and realized that I'd be finishing that run in the dark, I tried a sample of Safety Skin, which looked like deodorant but is supposed to reflect light when smeared on your skin. I don't know how reflective I was because I was not a driver looking at me, but I didn't get hit, and the spread didn't irritate my skin. Have you tried that? Let us know how it worked.

Clothes

At the very least, wear a neon-colored or white shirt when you run in the dark. I highly doubt that most people reading this newsletter are ninjas. Even if you are, I don't think you're doing ninja things at 5 am on a Monday. So dress brightly.