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  DontGetHit Archive Page  
 
Saturday, April 28, 2012
 
 
 
DontGetHit.com
  Sometimes things happen in life that are unavoidable.  It seems like 
more and more bikers have been hit, whether they were on the street or 
out in the country.  These accidents are more likely to occur if the 
rider doesn't have any reflective gear on.  The drivers can't see the 
bikers, and the chances of an accident are greatly increased.   
One of the best things a biker can have on their bodies are reflective backpacks .  These backpacks can be purchased online at many different 
outlets.  The backpacks are very affordable and go a long way in 
preventing an accident from occurring.  The reflective material is lined
 over the backpack, which can be seen in the dark at long distances.  
Reflective backpacks are also very practical because they can hold all 
of the biker's gear.  They can put their water, their books, food, 
emergency kits, and much more.  The bikers can even buy reflective tape 
to put on their backpacks.   
 
Another gear for bikers that is a must are reflective vests .  These 
vests can also be purchased online and are very affordable.  The 
reflective vests allow drivers to see the bikers at night, and the vests
 do not weigh the bikers down.   This allows for a more enjoyable ride 
for those who do not want to have a backpack while they are traveling.  
 
Other items that are great fro protective a biker are reflective belts , 
reflective leg bands, reflective armbands, and much more.  Reflective 
belts great for those riders who don't like to be weighed down by heavy 
objects, which can degrade the overall experience of the ride.  
Reflective leg bands are also great for showing up in the dark.  
Reflective armbands are great for those who don't want anything around 
their waists.  
 
Again, all of these reflective gear items  can be found online at 
affordable rates.  Nothing is worse than needing something and not 
having them than having them and not needing them.  So many accidents 
occur every year because bikers are not properly equipped to travel in 
the dark.  Drivers may be traveling on the road and may not have the 
best vision at night.  That is why it is imperative that bikers use some
 sort reflective gear.  Even if they think they look goofy, the bikers 
should wear them because it could potentially save their life.  All of 
this could have been circumvented if they were wearing the proper biker 
gear.    
Thursday, April 26, 2012
 
 
 
DontGetHit.com
  Anyone that has ever been broken down on the freeway, or even stalled 
at a green light feels the fear of an accident. In some cases it’s a 
risk to even open the vehicle and get out. This is a rough spot, for a 
stranded motorist not sure that other drivers see or care about the 
oncoming predicament. In this case what is needed is a way to 
figuratively increase the size of the stranded car, and increase the 
level of caution being used by oncoming traffic. Slowing down and 
increasing the care and attention being paid to the situation, is the 
safest thing to do immediately after traffic blocking situation.Car emergency lights  are a driver’s best friend in this situation 
because it helps to increase the presence of the road obstruction. 
Emergency lights for vehicles actually make a disabled car more of a 
concern to oncoming traffic. This increases their need to use caution. 
Without them, even if a driver sees a disabled car slightly off the road
 he may be just veer away without reducing speed, a much more dangerous 
scenario.  Car emergency lights usually refer to emergency flashers that
 all go on with one control. They are bright enough that they usually 
cut through fog and stormy weather. 
Emergency lights for vehicles  also refer to flashing lights you see for 
police and fire. These are high powered and serve the purpose not just 
of getting people’s attention but also to clear the road. Amber 
Construction and security lights also make other vehicles in seeing 
distance take notice and prepare to take action.  Often these are what 
motorists see first when driving up on road construction, pipe repair, 
power lines, etc. they come with specific colors designated for specific
 purposes within a few general categories. 
 
Car emergency lights can also refer to the hand held red caution lights 
that are used for directing traffic. They can also be the roadside 
flares that are commonly seen at an accident scene. Many drivers are 
aware enough to bring these along with them in their emergency kits.  
Sometimes it’s an officer that just arrives at the scene and is trying 
to establish a bypass for traffic. Reflectors  or reflecting tape on 
traffic cones, though not as visible as a powered light are certainly 
better than nothing.  When equipping  a car they can be a lifesaving 
standby.
 
If you decide to put lights in your emergency kit make sure that the 
batteries work.  Look into options that  plug into your car’s lighter.  
Remember, if your car doesn’t start, the more items you run off of your 
car’s battery the sooner your battery will lose its charge. 
 
Confidence in a tense situation is what you need to make a calm 
decision. Emergency lights for vehicles give people at least the 
security that they are doing all they can to be visible in a dangerous 
situation. Another benefit about turning on emergency lights is that in 
many states it’s illegal not to use caution when emergency lights are 
flashing.    
Sunday, April 22, 2012
 
 
 DontGetHit.com
  Brite-Strike is a huge player in tactical equipment. They make 
tactical flashlights that are used by today's police force while also 
making gloves that assist in directing traffic. The products they make 
are of very high quality so you know you can depend on them when  you 
need them most. Two products in particular are all the craze right now. 
Those two are the Brite-Strike flashlight and gloves. 
The Brite-Strike flashlight  is an especially good flashlight. It 
produces 90 lumens on low then on the high setting it puts out a 
blinding 198 lumens. With three pushes of the button you can make the 
high setting strobe as well, which is sure to disorient any assailants 
that might wish you any harm. Its battery is rated to last more than 
100,000 hours with the cutting edge Luxeon LED battery. So you can be 
sure that it won't go dead when you need it most. You can also say 
goodbye to the infamous blue ring that most LED flashlights emit, it's 
all bright white light thanks to the aluminum reflector inside of the 
Brite-Strike flashlight. The tri-sided barrels are designed for the best
 grip in your hand when also holding a weapon and is better suited for 
the task than other flashlights. That coupled with its front and rear 
crowns which are designed specifically to strike any unruly persons make
 it the best tactical flashlight. It's also compact enough for any 
situation, measuring in at 5" long and 3/4" in diameter means it's 
versatile enough for a police officer but powerful enough for a SWAT 
team. 
 
The Brite-Strike gloves  are a real treat for officers who need to work 
traffic on those dark nights. Normal illuminating gloves use a passive 
illumination that requires outside light to hit them and they reflect 
this back. This is dangerous for everyone involved because by the time a
 driver can see the reflection, if they are going too fast, they might 
get someone hurt. Instead the Brite-Strike gloves use active 
illumination with micro-thin LED strips that can be be set to always on,
 fast strobe, and slow strobe. You can also choose to operate the glove 
with one or two LED's on for extra brightness. They are fingerless 
gloves as well so you can pull them right over your other gloves and 
they will fit just fine.
Brite-Strike  has really outdone themselves on these two products. They 
both have the potential to save lives and are always dependable.The 
tactical flashlight is especially impressive with it's huge battery life
 and optional strobe setting to blind suspects. You can tell that they 
take a lot of care and pride when making their products. This is 
especially shown with their gloves that have LED lights for active 
illumination. It's dangerous to direct traffic and these gloves make it 
at least a little bit safer for anyone who has to do it. So all in all, 
Brite-Strike is a name you can trust when it comes to tactical gear.    
Friday, April 20, 2012
 
 
 
DontGetHit.com
  Visibility is a key factor in remaining safe for different types of 
outdoor jobs. Being struck by motorists is fairly common in certain 
professions including: 
• Crossing guards 
• Construction workers working on roads 
• Police officers 
• Landscapers
 
Cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians (including joggers) also face 
these dangers, especially when on the roads at night. It could be argued
 that anyone spending extended periods in the vicinity of a roadway is 
in danger of being struck. A particular concern is work done around loud
 equipment, where an operator may not immediately see those immediately 
in their vicinity. While visibility may not be a factor in all such 
accidents, it is in some. 
 
A worker or cyclist will need to take precautions, including  the  
wearing of safety clothing  like reflective belts and vests that enables 
them to be visible at dark, or even so that they stand out from their 
surroundings.
 
One factor to consider when purchasing any kind of safety gear, 
including reflective clothing, is effectiveness. This clothing is only 
useful if it works. The question that should be asked is will a 
particular type of clothing make the wearer more visible to motorists? 
One way in which reflective is rated is using the American Standards 
Institute/International Safety Equipment Association (ANSI/ISEA) 
standard. Specifically ANSI/ISEA 107-1999. The standard exists to allow 
those seeking reflective apparel to select the most effective product 
and to remain safe. It is seen as a means of determining quality. 
Types of Reflective Clothing for Workers 
The most common form of reflective gear worn is the reflective safety 
vest. They are easy to put on, highly visible and can be worn over any 
type of clothing. They come in a number of styles and types and can be 
either ANSI  2 or 3. One of the key features of the reflective vests, in
 particular, is that they are customizable, meaning that a logo or 
company name can be printed on them. The higher the number, the more 
reflective material there is in the item. The more reflective the 
product, the better for use it is in areas where bad weather is common 
or where light may be limited. The color traditionally used for 
reflective clothing to be worn during certain hours is yellow-green. 
Wearing a yellow-green reflective vest  makes an individual particularly 
visible during daylight hours. Orange is traditional in some situations.
 Both colors are supposed to have the benefit of allowing the wearer to 
stand out from low visibility situations 
Running Reflective Gear 
Runners should always try to avoid areas that are not well-lit, but 
sometimes low-light situations are unavoidable. Like roadside workers, 
runners face a high risk of being struck by vehicles. They may face this
 risk whether or not they are wearing running reflective gear, but even 
so, being more visible is always a good idea. There are reflective vests
 and other types of gear designed specifically for use by runners. 
Reflective armbands  are useful for runners who do not want to cover 
themselves with an additional layer of clothing. Reflective armbands 
have an additional benefit due to their position. Studies have shown 
that drivers see reflective objects more quickly if they are placed on 
the knees, elbows, shoulders or waist (such as reflective belts).    
Friday, April 13, 2012
 
 
DontGetHit.com   Every year, over 100,000 runners, walkers and cyclists are hit by  vehicles.  With all the distracted, fatigued and drunk drivers on the  road, it is important to be safe. Everyone who hits the pavement with  their feet or their bikes, must take a defensive position and protect  themselves.  It is important to stick out and be noticed.  Glowing like a  light bulb is good while appearing like a shadow is not. Using the proper running reflective gear  is the best way to be defensive and get  noticed when out for a jog or a ride.
 
Most experienced runners and bikers understand the importance of  reflective running gear.  They understand the importance of sticking  out. Most reflective items are lightweight, comfortable, and not very  expensive. There is no excuse not to wear at least one piece of  reflective gear when heading out on the pavement for an exhilarating  outdoors workout.
 
Using Running Reflective Gear to Light Up Like a Christmas Tree
 
Here are a few of the most common reflective items available for runners  and bikers. These items are great for anyone who goes out for their  daily workout in the late afternoon or evening.
Reflective vests :  These vests are lightweight and worn over a shirt.   They feature reflective patches on different parts of the vest and come  in a variety of bright and bold colors. Some vests even include built-in  L.E.D. lights for added visibility. Reflective vests usually have  pockets for cell phones, keys, mace, and anything else runners want to  bring along on their workouts.
Reflective belts :  These belts are often made of Lycra and will stretch  to fit all body types.  Some reflective belts come with waist packs for  storing keys, a cell phone, or other small items.
Reflective armbands or ankle bands :  Bands on the arms or ankles provide  additional color and reflective material for more visibility.   Reflective armbands or ankle bands with L.E.D. lights are also  available.
Reflective tape and stickers : Tape and stickers come in a variety of  sizes and colors.  For business owners, it is possible to do a little  advertising by ordering some specially designed stickers to promote a  company while running or biking. Tape and stickers can be placed  anywhere and everywhere.
 
Every jogger or biker should make sure to carry identification, bring a  cell phone for emergencies and wear reflective gear to make them more  visible when lighting is low or nonexistent. Run or bike safely by  wearing running reflective gear anytime visibility is compromised or  limited.  Looking like a Christmas tree or a fireworks display may seem  funny to some people, but it can be a matter of life or death to  dedicated runners and bikers. Sticking out and being noticed, whether on  a gloomy day or in the middle of the night, will help runners and  bikers enjoy their workout and stay safe.    
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
 
 
DontGetHit.com   When the sun begins to set, a deep, colorful sunset spreads across the  sky, alerting the world that night is approaching. While this time of  the day is beautiful for photographers, animals, and sightseers, it is  one of the most dangerous periods of the day for bicycle riders. In  generals, cars, trucks, and buses pose a large threat to bicycle riders,  because oftentimes they simply don't see them until it's too late.  
In order to promote visibility throughout the entire day, certain safety  precautions such as wearing fluorescent clothing, using reflectors, and  investing in LED bike tail lights are essential. Although any form of  these safety elements is beneficial, not all LED bicycle lights  are  created equal. While cheaper $10 versions of LED bike trail lights can  greatly add to one's safety, other models offer additional safety  features at a higher price. LED bicycle lights come in a variety of  shapes that promote visibility from various angles. While headlights are  oblong to ensure visibility for oncoming traffic, tail lights are often  completely open in order to make riders more visible to traffic behind  them. 
 
Additionally, LED bike tail lights  differ in their mounting systems and  cord options. While some lights are corded and come with chargers,  others are cordless for convenience and appearance. Not to mention,  different lumen amounts correlate with the available light run time. For  example, 750 lumens provides 90 minutes of highly visible light, 500  lumens provides 2.5 hours of medium visibility, 200 lumens provides 5  hours of low energy, and 100 lumens produces 10 hours of low visibility.  The time of morning or night that bicyclers will be riding is essential  to the amount of light that will be required to ensure adequate  visibility for other traffic. 
Various types of lights  also differ in their preferential and/or  required placement. While most are placed on top of handlebars or  underneath the seat, others can be placed on pedals, wheels, clothing,  and even on helmets. Depending on the placement of the light, differing  devices may offer one or multiple sources of light. The shape of the  light source determines approximately what surface will be illuminated  and how far the illumination will extend. 
 
Before purchasing LED bicycle lights , it is essential for customers to  determine what type of illumination they would prefer, the placement  expectations, and how much they prefer to spend on their chosen device.  Reading online reviews can help determine benefits and downfalls of  certain brands, shapes, and strength and can help customers get the best  product to fit their budget. Preparational research can greatly aide in  your search and give you an advantage in finding your the perfect LED  bike tail lights.    
Sunday, April 08, 2012
 
 
DontGetHit.com   Your pet is your family and losing them is one of the hardest things  to go through; fortunately there are many things you can do to avoid  loss by using a few gadgets or outerwear including reflective collars,  reflective dog leashes and other reflective pet gear.  Hundreds of  thousands of pets go missing every year and few are found, don't let one  of them be yours.Reflective Dog Collars  are widely available and one of the simplest ways  to secure your pet in your sight especially at nighttime. Personalized  reflective dog collars are available and can include the dogs name and  your contact telephone number in case they are found. Reflective dog  collars are available in a variety of colors so you can find one that  best suits your dog if you like to dress them up or co-ordinate with  your outfits. Look for a collar with sturdy construction and stitching  to ensure it doesn't come off in general play. It is not recommended  that you use these collars for tying up.
 
A Reflective Dog Leash  can increase the safety of you and your pet  especially on walks at dusk or nighttime, the more visibility the better  especially when crossing roads, walking through dark areas or even side  streets. Combining the reflective dog leash with the collar will boost  your defense in multiple surroundings. If your dog gets loose it will be  easier to see or catch him/her the more visible they are.
 
Reflective Pet Gear is another option to keep your pet safe. There are  reflective vests and harnesses available that will make your pet highly  visible in city and country landscapes. Vests and harnesses  are  available in various reflective colors such as orange or yellow. Some  vests are available in fleece for colder areas and have reflective  stripes for high visibility. 
 
With so many options on the market you can't afford not to keep your pet  safe, after all they are family. Safety should be paramount in your  life at home or at work and include everyone, especially your beloved  pet. If dogs are lost without contact information or any of the safety  measures listed above, it will be difficult to track them down again.
 
In fall and winter months reflective gear  is even more important. Once  daylight savings is in effect those nighttime walks can be increasingly  dangerous, by having the necessary protective equipment you can help you  and your pet continue your joyous walks through the colder months.  Those fleece vests sound like an even better investment around this time  too. 
 
Take care of your pet and your pet will take care of your for many years to come.    
Friday, April 06, 2012
 
 
DontGetHit.com   Bicycle safety  is very important. It can mean the difference between  life or death. There are some basic rules of the road for bicyclists. If  you follow them closely, you will be much safer when you are riding in  traffic. Many accidents between cars and bicycles could be prevented if  both the driver of the car and the bicyclist were following the rules of  the road. Here are some basic safety tips.
 
Always inspect your bike before each trip. Be sure it is in safe running  order. Check the tires and brakes and be sure the seat is securely  attached.Take your time, if you are riding in traffic you should obey  all rules of the road. Always stop at stop signs and traffic lights. 
 
Remember to always wear the proper safety gear . Wear a quality helmet to  protect your head. Most serious injuries involving a bike vs. car are  head injuries. Many of these injuries could be avoided if the bike rider  was wearing a quality helmet that fits them properly and is secured  correctly on their head. Be sure to ride on the right side of the road  and always signal when making a turn. Some riders choose to wear knee  pads and elbow pads. 
 
Always assume that the driver of the vehicles that you are sharing the  road with don't see you. Be aware of the vehicles around you positions,  and actions. If you are riding with a partner do not follow their  actions, assuming that they are paying attention. Make sure you are  aware of the road on your own. Wear reflective clothing as well. This  will make you more visible to car traffic. 
 
There is a variety of reflective apparel  available for bicyclists. The  more reflective clothing that you wear the safer you will be. It is  suggested that you wear reflective armbands, reflective leg bands,  reflective belts, reflective vests and reflective backpacks. The reasons  for wearing this equipment are quite simple. Most reflective armbands  are relatively inexpensive and they will alert any drivers of your  presence. When you signal before turning,  reflective arm bands and  reflective leg bands will draw attention to your location as you are  turning. Bicyclist who ride regularly often purchase reflective vests  and reflective belts also. It is proven that the more reflective clothing  you wear when riding, especially at night, the safer you will  be. If you are traveling long distances and need to carry extra items,  it is suggested that you wear reflective backpacks on your ride.    |