Tampere tests reflective spinner at hazardous daycare crossing

Tampere is testing a reflective spinner at a hazardous pedestrian crossing beside Luhtaa daycare, hoping to make people crossing more visible to drivers, Yle reports.

Before stepping onto the crossing, pedestrians spin the plastic wheel, which is fitted with reflectors. The rotating reflective surface is intended to catch drivers’ attention, particularly in the dark. The pause may also give drivers more time to spot someone preparing to cross.

The trial is taking place on Luhtaankatu in the Pappila district, near the daycare and bus stops. The crossing has poor visibility, and the city has received complaints about the location. Speed bumps have not removed the safety concerns, according to Jukka Mäenpää, an early childhood education worker.

The spinner is based on a model from Sweden, where similar devices are widely used at bus stops and pedestrian crossings. Tampere has tested one in the city for the first time. Traffic engineer Seppo Kaunisto says the city will consider using more if the device proves effective and people use it.

Kaunisto also sees the spinner as a way to teach children to stop before crossing. Local resident Pauliina Aho, who was out with her children on Friday, was sceptical about how well it would work.