Safe Walking Tips
Walking is such great exercise and so easy too. Some studies have suggested that 20 minutes a day can cut your risk of heart disease by 50%. So we suggest that before you get in your car each morning, take a quick walk around the block. For the kids, try parking 5 blocks away from school. That’s about a 15 minute walk.
- Walk on sidewalks. If no sidewalks exist where you are walking, walk along the shoulder, facing traffic.
- Stop at all curbs, intersections and alleyways. Look both ways before proceeding, left, right, left again. As you cross, be sure to continue to look both ways.
- Wait until traffic is clear in both directions before crossing, then cross in a straight line. Continue scanning for traffic as you cross.
- If you must cross mid-block, be sure to stop at the curb and check for traffic and stop AGAIN at the edge of any parked cars and check again.
- Be visible. Wear bright and/or reflective clothing
- Know your route. Be sure you know the streets you are walking or biking on.
- Always tell someone where you are going, and if possible when you will return.
- Never hitchhike or take rides from people not arranged by your parents.
- Be sure to carry water with you, especially in the Summer months.
- If you are walking or biking in the evening carry a light.
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