Janet,
John, aka pita, has been on this site for a very long time.
From my findings, he has been on the site since 2008 (first as JohnB57 then as PitA).
John simply stated
platitude, which means that (to him) your statement has been said before.
Now, I agree that telling people to be safe can't be said enough. However, John is also entitled to his opinions.
Personally, I wouldn't get that worked up over his responses. When he wants to truly contribute, he seems to be spot on (as evident by his past posts). When he wants to just make snide remarks he has a nack of pushing individuals buttons. If one simply doesn't respond to those comments, the comments (in my opinion) are given less weight - as if one is simply ignoring what is said.
Keep in mind that he thinks using the name PitA is funny.
I did find it a little funny when he changed it around 2013.
Over time, such humor loses it's appeal to me quickly.
Personally, I thought he would change it back.
He chose not to.
Therefore, take the name as a warning, ignore the comments that appear to be attacks vs. helpfulness. I've found that such an approach minimizes the stress in my life.
Personally, whenever I see such comments, I simply say to my self, what an (well PitA).
Tim