Be Smart Be Seen — Why Visibility Matters as the Clocks Change

Don’t Get Caught in the Dark — The Clocks Go Back This Weekend!

As the clocks go back, evenings draw in fast and visibility drops before you know it. One moment you’re finishing a hack, dog walk or school run — the next, dusk has fallen and you’re harder to spot. It happens every year.

This is your friendly reminder to check your hi-vis clothing and LED accessories — for yourself, your horse, your children and your dog. When daylight fades, being seen isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

Why Visibility Matters After the Clocks Change

The weeks following the clock change are some of the most dangerous on UK roads. Drivers are still adjusting to darker commutes, and low light makes it harder to see riders, pedestrians and pets.
Wearing hi-vis with integrated LED lighting gives others the vital seconds they need to see and react — a small change that can make a life-saving difference.

Simple Checks to Keep Your Hi-Vis and LED Products Performing Safely

A few minutes of care can keep your visibility kit bright, reliable, and ready for every outing.

1. Keep it clean

Wipe off mud and sweat after each use — dirt dulls fluorescent fabric and reflective strips.
Hand-wash or use a gentle cycle with mild detergent, avoiding bleach or fabric softeners that damage reflective coatings. 

2. Charge regularly

Avoid letting batteries run completely flat and always keep charging ports dry and free from debris. For best results, limit charging time to a maximum of 1.5 -2 hours - overcharging will reduce the battery's ability to hold charge over time.

3. Dry thoroughly

Air-dry your hi-vis naturally and avoid tumble dryers or direct heat.
Check that waterproof seams and LED housings remain fully sealed after washing.

4. Check reflective areas

Hold your kit under a bright light to ensure the reflective panels still shine evenly.
Replace any items where the fabric has faded, cracked or peeled — visibility drops sharply when this happens.

5. Test LEDs before every outing

Switch on lights before you leave home to confirm all strips or bulbs are working.
Ensure white LEDs face forward and red LEDs face to the rear for correct visibility.

6. Inspect connections and cables

Look for loose wires or cracked housings, especially around switches and connectors.
Replace any damaged components where possible.

7. Store smartly

Keep your hi-vis and LED items in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
Avoid crushing light strips  or controllers.

8. Replace when needed

Even quality hi-vis loses brightness over time. If fluorescent colours or reflective tape appear dull, it’s time to refresh your kit.

9. Do regular checks

At the start of darker months — or when the clocks change — review your gear. Wash, recharge, test and inspect. It’s the simplest way to stay seen and safe.

Be Smart . Be Seen . Be Safe