November a one of those transitional months when it seems we’re neither here nor there.
The leaves are gone so it no longer feels like fall. We’re officially more than a month away from official winter and may not have seen more than a dusting of snow – or possibly a blizzard. We’re digging out warmer clothes and counting the days until we can pull out the skis, snowboards and skates. And somewhere in there we mark Thanksgiving – the busiest travel period of the year and a celebration that now feels squeezed out the by growing abrupt transition from inflatable Halloween decorations to Christmas lights.
As we move through these transitions, there’s one certainty – sooner or later winter is going to catch up with us. That makes November a time to polish up our winter driving practices. We need to quickly get on top of driving amid snow, ice, shorter days, darker commutes and the challenge of traffic-filled holiday road trips. And don’t forget about the deer and other wildlife still active on and around roadways. The end game: The shift to winter driving requires each of us to be on our best behind-the-wheel game.
As traffic safety professionals, it’s up to us to share these reminders and make sure our employee teams, family members and friends have access to the best practices education and tools. Watch for this month’s DriveSafeMN newsletter for links to a wide range of resources.
There’s no better reminder of why that’s important than this month’s global World Day of Remembrance. This event, which falls on Nov. 15 this year, honors those across the globe who’ve died as a result of traffic crashes over the last 12 months. This year marks two decades since the United Nations General Assembly declared this a global commemoration. I’ve attended the event many times at the Minnesota State Capitol and experienced the grief of the family and friends who light candles and tell the stories of loved ones who will never return home.
Finally, as we approach Thanksgiving later this month, know that I am grateful for each and every one of you for making keeping others safe on our roadways your priority. I wish you a meaningful holiday and, most of all, safe travels for you and those you love.
Yours in traffic safety,
Lisa
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