No doubt you spent some quality time outside this past weekend enjoying the May weather in April. By tonight the forecasters have promised more seasonal temperatures and, what else, rain.

While the warm weather we recently experienced brought out plenty of folks intent on getting a head start on their gardens and other house and yard work, it also acted as a lure for walkers, joggers,

bicyclists, motorcyclists and an occasional horseback rider. It was a preview of the summer of 2010. Our region has much to offer to anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors.

There are plenty of parks, trails and playgrounds to enjoy but the activities aren’t confined to those places. Motorists must remember to take extra care when traveling the roads in our area. Most of the roads in the region are barely two-lanes wide and lack sidewalks. Caution must be taken by all to keep everyone safe.

Leave the cell phone in your pocket or purse as you navigate the roadways, and be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists. Don’t take your eyes off the road to change the radio station or CD unless it’s safe. Avoid distractions or conversations inside your car that could prompt you to take your eyes of the road. It only takes a fraction of a second for a tragedy to occur.

Slow down as you approach the top of that hill – you never know what’s waiting on the other side. Don’t be in such a hurry. The wind from your passing vehicle could send a cyclist for a spill. Give pedestrians and bicyclists some extra room when you navigate around them.

Those who choose to take the slow road to their destination via the shoe leather or pedal express need to remember that they, too, are responsible for what happens on the road. Travel safely and give yourself enough room to react to a road-hog driver. It is never a good idea to play chicken with 5,000 lb. ,four-wheeled behemoths – you just won’t win. Bicyclists should be reminded that they must follow the same traffic laws as cars. Stop at red lights and stop signs.

Pedestrians should cross at crosswalks or intersections and be on the lookout for turning vehicles. Wear reflective clothing and avoid dark clothes when walking or bicycling at night. Motorists can’t avoid what they can’t see.

These are just a few tips - there are many more which will help keep everyone safe. Take time to learn them – your loved ones will thank you.

If everyone chooses to respect each other, we can all safely enjoy the roads.

Share the road and enjoy the season – spring is here!