What does a pedestrian signal that shows a red hand mean?

A pedestrian signal displaying a red hand indicates that it is unsafe for pedestrians to cross the street. This visual cue signals to pedestrians that they should remain on the sidewalk and not enter the crosswalk, as doing so could put them in danger due to oncoming traffic. Understanding this signal is crucial for pedestrian safety, as it helps prevent accidents by providing a clear directive to wait until the signal changes to a more favorable condition for crossing. Recognizing the meaning of different pedestrian signals is an important aspect of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians.