Phoenix Fire implements safety measures for pedestrians and cyclists with community grants

At the recent Vision Zero Community Advisory Committee meeting on June 25, 2025, Captain Kimberly Ragsdale of the Phoenix Fire Department unveiled a series of proactive measures aimed at enhancing road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. With a staggering 56,000 children injured annually in the U.S. from pedestrian and bicycle accidents, the department is committed to reducing these numbers through targeted educational initiatives and community outreach.

Ragsdale highlighted the department's annual grant from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, which funds essential resources such as bicycle helmets, car seats, and educational programs. This year alone, the fire department engaged 270 children through bicycle clinics and provided helmets to ensure safety while riding. Additionally, a new digital dashboard is being implemented to geo-track areas with high rates of bicycle and pedestrian accidents, allowing for focused educational efforts in those neighborhoods.

The fire department is also addressing car safety through its occupant protection program, which has conducted over 532 appointments for car seat inspections and installations. This initiative is crucial, as proper car seat use can reduce fatalities in infants and toddlers by 71% and 54%, respectively. Ragsdale emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting that the department has participated in 11 community events this grant year to promote car seat safety.

In a bid to tackle teen driving safety, the fire department has partnered with local hospitals to offer "Survive the Drive" courses, educating teens on the dangers of distracted and impaired driving. These classes have seen significant participation, with 400 students engaged so far this year.

Ragsdale also introduced the OptiComm system, which enhances emergency vehicle response times by changing traffic signals in favor of responding fire trucks. Currently installed at over 400 intersections, this technology aims to improve safety for both emergency responders and the public.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of leaving children and pets in hot cars, a critical issue in the Valley's extreme temperatures. As the fire department continues to implement these safety measures, the community can expect a concerted effort to reduce accidents and enhance overall road safety in Phoenix.