It’s Summer Safety Week in downtown Spokane! August 1 through 5, downtown is sharing resources and tips to foster a safer, more inviting, community for all.

From walking, to driving, to shopping and enjoying downtown nightlife, planning ahead and staying alert will keep you safe and create a better experience for yourself and those around you.

According to WalkScore.com downtown Spokane has a walkability score of 86, meaning walkability between downtown destinations is convenient and accessible. While walking around downtown it’s important stay alert to prevent bodily injury. Whether you are walking on a busy urban street with sidewalks and crosswalks, or are walking in a largely suburban area that is less densely populated, it is important to remember tips for staying safe. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety recommends the following safety tips for pedestrians:

• Make yourself visible and remain in well-lit areas.
• Avoid any distractions, including listening to music, talking on the phone, or texting.
• Follow traffic rules, and pay attention to street signs and signals.
• Assume that drivers do not see you and take steps to be seen, as well as making eye contact with drivers before you cross the street.
• Use crosswalks and walk on sidewalks when they are available.
• Never walk on roads prohibited for pedestrians, such as highways.

The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) reminds shoppers to keep safety in mind as they enjoy a shopping trip. The organization offers these tips to help you shop safely while hunting for bargains.

• Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook.
• When shopping knowing who and what is around you can help you avoid being surprised.
• Carry only what you need and don’t be overburdened with packages.
• Request stores to hold your merchandise until you are finished shopping or leave your purchases in the trunk of your car.

Lost or stolen tech items are expensive and inconvenient. Plan ahead in the unfortunate incident your personal property goes missing. Document serial numbers, pawn shops and similar are required to write down serial numbers of purchased products, so you are able to look up whether your gear was stolen and sold.

Planning a fun night out? Whether you are walking, getting a ride or driving, make sure your plans are set before you go out. If you are walking, make sure you know your route. If you are getting a ride, make sure the driver stays sober. If you are driving, you are responsible for the safety of your friends.

• Use the buddy system. Plan ahead by taking a trusted friend who has your best interests in mind. Stay together.
• Eat and stay hydrated. Alcohol can dehydrate you quickly.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended. The best way to keep your possessions safe, is to leave them at home.
• Stay by your drinks. Even if you are not drinking alcohol, it is easy for someone to put something in your drink unless you see it opened or prepared. Keep it with you at all times.
• If you are driving, stay sober and be an extra defensive driver. Others may not be as responsible as you are. If you are walking, be aware that drivers may be distracted or intoxicated. Use extra caution whenever you are crossing a street or near vehicles in motion.
• Look out for your friends. Even if you are aware of your surroundings, nobody can see everything all the time. Look out for the safety of your friends and talk to them about doing the same for you.

No matter where you are, getting stuck is never fun. Pack emergency gear in your car’s trunk. fill it with things you may need in an emergency such as a portable battery charger, jumper cables, water bottles, blankets, flares, reflective vests, a first aid kit, bungee cords, changes of clothes, rain poncho, spotlight, fix-a-flat, miniature shovel, umbrella, and even more. It’s better to keep these items on hand and not need them than need them and not have them. Don’t have these items and stuck downtown? Call a downtown Ambassador at 509.353.9111 during Ambassador hours to request help.

See someone in need? Locate and share community resources with the Downtown Resource Guide, a collaboration between DSP and SNAP.

The best way to build a safer community is to know your neighbors and your surroundings! Come learn more tips and tricks to help keep your community safe at our Night Out Against Crime Event this Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at 4:00 pm.