Garwood Offers Seniors Safety Vests To Improve Safety With Cars

GARWOOD, NJ — Garwood is giving out reflective safety vests to seniors to improve their visibility with cars while walking at night during the winter months when days are the shortest.

This follows the death of Catherine Flint, 81, of Garwood who was hit by a car while walking her dog at night. Read More: 81-Year-Old Garwood Woman Fatally Hit By Car While Crossing Road

"Public safety remains a top priority for the Borough," said Garwood Mayor Sara Todisco. "Wearing reflective materials when outside after dark can help to prevent tragedies."

According to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 76 percent of pedestrian fatalities are at night, and 22 percent of all pedestrian fatalities were people 65 and older.

The organization recommends that pedestrians wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

Garwood seniors can request a reflective safety vest by visiting the Garwood Police Department headquarters at 403 South Ave. in Garwood and ringing the dispatch bell within the vestibule or by contacting Police Commissioner and Councilman Michael Ince at 908-472-1556 or mince@garwood.org.

"We want to make it as easy as possible for seniors to obtain a reflective vest and protect themselves, especially during the dark winter nights," said Todisco. "As we continue to prioritize public safety, we will continue to explore additional opportunities to make our town safe for everyone."

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.