WASHINGTON - The Humane Society of the United States is urging motorists to slow down and watch for wildlife. Autumn is a peak time for roadkills as shorter days, the shift back to Standard Time, and animals preparing for winter combine to make our roadways particularly dangerous for animals.

The HSUS offers the following tips for avoiding collisions with wildlife:

· Scan the edges of the road for wildlife about to cross; be especially cautious on roads bordered by fields or natural habitats. Many wild animals, especially deer, prefer edge habitats where fields and forests converge.

· Expect increased wildlife activity at dawn and at dusk and in the first few hours after darkness falls. Animals are especially active at these times.

· Dim dashboard lights slightly to increase ability to see the reflection of headlights in the eyes of animals. Use your high beam lights along unlighted streets, but be sure to avoid blinding oncoming cars.

· Increase your following distance. You?ll not only be able to react if an animal runs out into the roadway, you can also avoid hitting a car slowing down to avoid hitting an animal.

· Use extreme caution when attempting to rescue an injured animal or remove a dead animal from the road. Contact your local animal control department or police for assistance.

· Don't use a cell phone while driving. The distraction makes it harder to spot an animal and slows your reaction time.

"By slowing down and following a few simple precautions, you can reduce the likelihood that you?ll strike an animal," said John Hadidian, Ph.D., director of The HSUS's Urban Wildlife Protection program.

The HSUS offers a free "Give Wildlife a Brake" bumper sticker that reminds drivers to be cautious. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to "Give Wildlife a Brake," The HSUS, 2100 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20037.