Inexpensive flags are an idea that should catch on

I wholeheartedly agree with F.J. Keller's letter of Jan. 25 about using flags at the crosswalks.

Many years ago in Laguna Beach, Calif., the main highway ran through the center of town. And just as F.J. Keller described, flags were used at the crosswalks. The flags caught the driver's eye even with larger vehicles next to you because the pedestrian held the pole up and out in front of themselves. What an inexpensive way to help both the pedestrian and the driver. The person in the crosswalk can be seen night and day with the day-glow hand held flags. This is inexpensive, practical and could be installed almost instantly.

I, for one, am tired of trying to get across the street with so many inattentive drivers. And I agree that is often the case of the pedestrian, too. Not long ago a driver turning east in front of Dubs almost hit three elementary school age girls crossing with the light. They ran, the driver slammed on his breaks, but the youngest girl became confused and after running out of the path of the car turned around and darted back in front of it, turned again and ran back across the street. One flag would have warned the driver who was in a hurry. Thank heaven he had good reflexes.

I doubt the city will even give the flags a thought. But they are a short-term quick fix and can be done now. If the city won't do it, maybe we can individually give it a try. Make your own flag, a shorter version and keep it in the car. Give one to your kids to keep in their backpack and when you're in town use it. You never know when one little flag may save a life.

SANDY SMITH

Sagle