KOKOMO, Ind. —When you have a car versus pedestrian situation, the car wins every time.
The Indiana University Police Department at Kokomo has implemented Operation Safe Speed, focused on speed limits and crosswalks, to focus the campus and community on pedestrian safety.
Chief Thomas Remender is reducing speed limits on the IU Kokomo campus to 10 miles per hour, effective immediately. He noted that an IUPUI student pedestrian was killed last month, and another one seriously injured, by vehicles.
“Always yield to pedestrians, even when they are wrong,” he said. “We need all people to slow down and follow all speed limits on campus and on the street surrounding our campus.”
He’s also concerned about safety on Washington Street, where students cross from The Annex apartments. The speed limit is 30 miles per hour, but he’s witnessed drivers going much faster through that area.
Safety is a two-way street, he noted — pedestrians must play their part as well.
“This generation always has two ear buds in their ears. Can you hear a car? Can you hear a horn? You always should have one ear open at least, and be aware of your surroundings,” he said. “You should always stop and look before crossing the street.”
Additional safety tips for drivers:
• Slow down and obey posted speed limit
• Always look for pedestrians
• Look for vehicles stopped for pedestrians
• Do not text and drive
Additional safety tips for pedestrians:
• Cross the street at marked crosswalks and intersections
• Stop and look every time before crossing the street
• Keep your eyes up and keep at least one ear free so you can hear what is happening around you.
General campus safety tips:
• Program the IUPD-Kokomo dispatch number on your phone: 812-855-4111.
• In case of an emergency, dial 911.
• Keep your IU Notify emergency contact information updated on Canvas.
• Avoid walking alone at night. Call for police escorts during open hours.
• Park your car in a well-lit area, and keep it locked.
• Do not leave valuables in your car or unattended in unlocked offices, library, study areas, and cafeteria.
• If working or studying alone in an isolated area, lock the door and tell IUPD-Kokomo your location, and when you plan to leave.
• When using personal or campus computers, observe Internet precautions- check settings, passcode your devices, and be cautious with unsecured Wi-Fi.
Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.