We need your help preventing sign theft

by guest blogger Alice Fiman

Not all of us can be crime fighters, but we can all report crime. Today, we are asking for those driving on State Route 7 near Eatonville to keep an eye out for criminals stealing or damaging a vital safety sign.

As you travel south on SR 7, just north of Ohop Valley, there is a sharp curve in the vicinity of milepost 31.5. You may notice the arrow signs light up, letting you know you are traveling too fast approaching the curve. These signs, part of a research project, are funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Washington is one of five states where FHWA is testing “blinker signs.”

The project team believes these signs can reduce single-vehicle run-off-the road crashes at curves, where nationally, 25 percent of all highway fatalities occur. Someone is damaging and stealing the solar panels that power the signs. Without power, the sign can’t perform its vital safety function.

If you see someone out there and it just doesn’t look right, call 9-1-1 and report the suspicious activity. Make this call when it’s safe for you.

Be the hero.  Don’t let them get away and hurt someone you care about. Make the call to 9-1-1 or take note and fill out an online form later. 

Thank you.