Drivers are urged to slow down and be aware of wildlife activity as the days get shorter and the end of daylight saving time approaches.

During Give Wildlife a Brake™ Week, Oct. 26 through Nov. 1, the Humane Society of the United States wants to raise awareness among drivers and curb the potentially fatal effects of low-visibility driving conditions on both wildlife and people.

Deer and other wild animals are very active at this time of year. Accidental collisions involving large animals

such as deer draw the most attention, but other accidents regularly

occur as drivers swerve to avoid smaller animals such as squirrels, raccoons and even dogs and cats.

Tips to reduce the likelihood of an accident:

 Where there is one deer, there are likely others. If you see an animal crossing the road, slow down and remain alert for more.

 Be particularly alert for wildlife on roads at dawn and at dusk.

 Most animal-vehicle collisions occur on two-lane roads bordered by natural habitat. Be cautious in these areas.

 Do not toss trash out of car windows. Beyond polluting the environment, trash attracts wildlife to the roads and therefore leads to an increase in collisions.

“Deer-car collisions occur frequently from now to December,” said Susan Hagood, wildlife issues specialist for the HSUS. “The peak of mating season, combined with more commuters traveling after dark, results in more accidents. Drivers should exercise caution and look for wildlife.”