News Center 7 crews are now more visible when working some stories. Reflective safety vests are now part of their standard equipment.

New federal regulations require Channel 7 reporters and photographers to wear the high visibility vests when working along highways and some major roads. The Federal Highway Administration directive comes after a 2005 order from Congress to investigate ways to decrease the likelihood of worker injury along the nation's roadways. Those workers include journalists, as well as road and rescue crews.

"it may look a little strange to our viewers at first," says WHIO-TV News Director David Bennallack, "but we're happy to comply with any ideas to help ensure the safety of motorists and our crews."