Welcome to the NJ Park Ridge Police Dept.

Safety Alert: Drive Safely Through the Seasonal Change

As we adjust to the end of Daylight Saving Time and the start of the darker fall and winter months, the Park Ridge Police Department wants to remind our community about increased safety considerations for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The combination of earlier darkness, challenging weather, and the time change can significantly affect road safety.

⚠️ Adjusting to Earlier Darkness

The time change means your evening commute, and much of your day, will now be in darker conditions. Reduced visibility increases the risk of collisions.

• Be Aware of the "Sun Glare" Effect: With the sun lower in the sky, especially during morning and afternoon commute times, sun glare can be intense. Keep your windshield clean and use your sun visor.

• Lights On: Always ensure your headlights are functional and turned on at dusk and during bad weather. If you use your wipers, turn on your lights!

• Slow Down and Increase Distance: Darkness makes it harder to judge speed and distance. Reduce your speed and increase the following distance between your vehicle and others.

🚶 Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety

Pedestrians and cyclists are harder to see in the dark and during inclement weather. Drivers must be extra vigilant, and non-drivers should take steps to make themselves visible.

For Drivers:

• Look for Hidden Hazards: Be especially cautious in residential areas, school zones, and crosswalks, where pedestrians may suddenly appear from behind parked cars.

• Scan the Road: Actively look for pedestrians and cyclists before turning or backing up.

• Never Pass a School Bus: Flashing red lights mean stop—they are letting children on or off, and children can be unpredictable.

For Pedestrians and Cyclists:

• Be Visible: Wear light-colored or reflective clothing (jackets, vests, or armbands). Carry a flashlight.

• Follow Traffic Rules: Use sidewalks when available and cross streets only at designated crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again before stepping into the road.

• Bike Lights are Law: Bicycles must have a white front light and a red rear reflector or light when riding at night.

❄️ Preparing for Winter Driving Conditions

Winter weather, including rain, snow, and ice, requires a change in driving habits. Preparation is key to staying safe.

• Maintain Your Vehicle:

  • Tires: Check your tire pressure and tread depth. Consider winter or all-season tires.

  • Wipers and Fluid: Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and your wiper fluid reservoir is full (with a winter-grade formula).

  • Battery: Have your battery tested. Cold weather drains power quickly.

• The "Slow-Motion" Rule: Everything you do—accelerating, turning, and braking—must be done slowly and deliberately. Avoid sudden movements that can cause a skid.

• "Black Ice" Awareness: Be wary of bridges and overpasses, which freeze before roads. Black ice is nearly invisible—if the road looks wet but it's near or below freezing, assume it's ice.

• Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including:

  • Jumper cables

  • Flares or reflective triangles

  • First-aid kit

  • Blankets and non-perishable snacks

  • Cat litter or sand (for traction)

  • A shovel and an ice scraper

🏡 General Safety Reminders

The season also brings other safety concerns we urge you to remember:

• Home Security: With more darkness, be diligent about locking all doors and windows on your home and garage, even when you are home. Use exterior lighting to deter crime.

• Pet Safety: Keep pets inside during extreme cold, or ensure they have adequate shelter. Never leave pets in a cold car.

• Heating Safety: If using a fireplace or space heater, ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Keep flammable items away from heat sources.

Your Park Ridge Police Department is committed to keeping our roads and community safe this season. Please drive responsibly and look out for one another.

Have a safe fall and winter!

Sincerely,

Joseph Rampolla

Chief of Police   

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact our non-emergency number at 201-391-5401.

Stay safe and vigilant, The Park Ridge Police Department