By Alec Pronk–
Motorists travelling through Citrus Heights were treated to an out-of-the-ordinary sight on Tuesday when a prehistoric pedestrian could be seen prancing across crosswalks to raise awareness for pedestrian safety.
The Citrus Heights Police Traffic Unit conducted the crosswalk safety campaign with the aid of a brown inflatable dinosaur. The operation was held on Oct. 9, between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., as part of National Bike and Walk to School Day.
Police Lt. Kris Frey said the dinosaur legally and safely walked across crosswalks in various intersections, with officers pulling over motorists who failed to yield the right of way to pedestrians. He said the operation focused on education, with officers informing drivers of the importance of paying attention to pedestrians and crosswalks. Some drivers were also ticketed after being pulled over.
“Many drivers often become complacent with their daily commutes and fail to pay attention to pedestrians and bicyclists who are also utilizing our roadways,” the lieutenant told The Sentinel in an email. The dinosaur functioned as a creative way to draw drivers out of their normal habits and pay closer attention to crosswalks and pedestrians.
The police department subsequently released a video on social media with highlights from the Oct. 9 operation. The video quickly received more than 10,000 views on Facebook, and can also be viewed on YouTube.
Asked whether the dinosaur may be deployed again in the future, Frey said it might not be the last time Citrus Heights crosswalks are taken over by dinosaurs.
“Who knows, the dinosaur may reappear in a busy intersection near you!”
Want to share your thoughts on this story? Submit a letter to the editor for publication: Click here
