The polar night in Norway, particularly in the Tromsø region, lasts from November 20 to January 20. During this period, the sun does not rise, making walking or biking especially dangerous due to almost zero visibility. Wearing vests or reflective bands is an essential safety measure.
Why are reflective devices mandatory?
1. Reduced visibility and increased risks
In winter, total darkness makes pedestrians and cyclists invisible to drivers, even with headlights on. Norwegian drivers, while vigilant, may have difficulty spotting unequipped road users because local pedestrians systematically wear vests, jackets, or wristbands with reflective strips. Outside city centers, pedestrians may have to walk directly on the road due to snowdrifts left by snowplows that block the sides of the road. Fortunately, in Norway, the road is shared and priority is given to the more vulnerable. That said, this does not exempt pedestrians from equipping themselves properly to avoid accidents.
2. Legal obligation in Norway
For drivers: It is mandatory to have a fluorescent yellow reflective vest and a red triangle in the vehicle (Statens vegvesen).
For pedestrians and cyclists: Wearing reflective gear is mandatory outside illuminated urban areas and highly recommended elsewhere during the polar night.3. Efficacité des équipements réfléchissants
A pedestrian wearing a vest or reflective strips is visible from 150-200 meters, compared to only 20-30 meters without any equipment. Equipment that meets the EN ISO 20471 standard ensures optimal visibility.
How to equip yourself properly?
Where to find them?
In stores or websites for cyclists and drivers.
Practical tips
- Wear the equipment even in the city, as some streets may be poorly lit.
- Check the compliance of reflective strips (European standard EN ISO 20471).
- Prefer light-colored clothing and use a headlamp as a supplement.
In Norway during the polar night, reflective vests or strips are not just recommended: they are essential for ensuring your safety. These simple pieces of equipment save lives by making pedestrians and cyclists visible in the dark. Before your trip, make sure to equip yourself!
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