On Feb. 6, the Lower Macungie Township Senior Citizens group held an informative driver safety meeting at the Lower Macungie Community Center.

The meeting focused on Pennsylvania’s Yellow Dot program and provided practical tips for aging drivers including an emergency kit checklist designed for driving during winter months.

Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator Kelly Gerencher outlined the benefits of Pennsylvania’s Yellow Dot Program.

In the event of an accident a yellow dot affixed in the lower left side of the driver’s side rear window alerts Emergency Medical Service personnel to look in the glove compartment for vital information such as a list of current medications, allergies, medical conditions or recent surgeries, emergency contact information and hospital preferences in the event the driver is not able to communicate. While this program is beneficial for older adults it can be used by drivers of all ages.

The program is a collaborative effort involving the Pennsylvania Departments of Transportation, Health and Aging, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, Pennsylvania State Police, first responders and local law enforcement.

As Gerencher continued her presentation she reinforced the idea aging does not necessarily mean the loss of the ability to drive but recognizing adjustments may need to be made due to changes in flexibility, strength and reaction time. Acknowledging abilities and/or limitations is key. Typical adjustments include proper seatbelting, seat positioning, mirror and pedal adjustments.

Gerencher also provided the group with tips on how to prepare vehicles for driving during the winter months by making sure tires, wipers and headlights are functioning optimally.

The vehicle should also be outfitted with a survival kit including but not limited to high protein foods and snacks, water, medications, a cellphone charger, jumper cables, blankets, gloves, extra outerwear items like hats, socks, jackets, mittens and tools such as a hand shovel, windshield scraper and sand or kitty litter.

She also advised seniors to check in with family or friends about where and when they are traveling, update contacts in cellphones, regularly have eyesight and hearing checks and to consult doctors about how medications or medical conditions may affect driving.

If interested in the Pennsylvania Yellow Dot program, more information and an application to receive a Yellow Dot kit can be found at www.yellowdot.pa.gov.