Safety Crosswalk Flags Aim to Protect Pedestrians in Fenwick Island

FENWICK ISLAND, Del.– Drivers and pedestrians in Fenwick Island are seeing a new safety feature at crosswalks: bright orange crossing flags designed to help make pedestrians more visible along busy roadways.

While the flags are easy to spot, Fenwick Island Police Chief Michael Morrissey said they are meant to complement not replace safe driving and pedestrian awareness.

“We are actually out there enforcing speed limits and traffic laws to get people to slow down, to make it safe for everybody,” Morrissey said. “When people are crossing the road they’re juggling kids and beach toys. The flags are an extra safety measure.

Town officials say residents and visitors have embraced thr program since the flags were introduced.

“It’s been phenomenal,” Fenwick Island Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said. “Our residents have embraced it. Our guests have embraced it. We hear from them that it’s a great idea that it is a game changer. Theres a little bit of fun because you get to wave the flag as you’re going across the road, but it is a safety mechanism.

Despite the positive response, police stress that the flags are only one part of keeping everyone safe.

“Pay attention to the flags,” Morrissey said. “They’re orange and they have reflective tape on them. Make sure you’re crossing the roadway where drivers can see you. My advice for drivers when they’re coming through town is to slow down.”

Police say pedestrian safety remains a shared responsibility between drivers and those crossing the street, especially during the busy summer season.