The Shadow
Chester, Va. (VR) – As National Work Zone Awareness Week kicks off, Columbia Gas of Virginia is reminding drivers to follow good safety practices every time they encounter road work crews.
This year’s theme for National Work Zone Awareness Week, which runs from today, Monday, April 20, through Friday, April 24, is “Safe Actions Save Lives.”
“For Columbia Gas of Virginia, in 2025, our employees experienced eight work zone intrusions and, thankfully, no one was injured. But that’s too many close calls,” said Columbia Gas of Virginia President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Montague. “Working in a work zone is one of the most dangerous jobs our employees have, so we really need drivers in the Commonwealth to help keep them safe.”
If you encounter work crews on the road, following these simple tips just might save a life:
- Expect the unexpected – Normal speed limits may be reduced; traffic lanes may change; and people may be working on or near the road.
- Slow down – Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
- Keep your distance – Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you and don’t tailgate.
- Pay attention to the signs – Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you’ve left the work zone.
- Obey road crew flaggers – A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying directions.
- Stay alert and minimize distractions – Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving.
For more information about Columbia Gas of Virginia’s focus on safety, please visit www.columbiagasva.com/safety.
