With the weather slowly (very slowly) warming up, everyone is spending more and more time outside walking, playing or just enjoying the fresh air.
Here in New Jersey, we are very lucky to have some of the most beautiful parks to explore and we also have many communities that boast hiking trails and fun parks.
But before you lace up your sneakers, here are some walking safety tips.
Visibility – Make sure that you can be seen.
- Wear bright-colored or light-colored clothing such as a cap, hat, jacket, vest to make you more visible to other ans drivers.
- Attach a piece of high visibility fluorescent material to your purse, backpack, briefcase, or any item in plain view.
Awareness – Make sure someone knows of your plans if you are hiking.
- Inform family or a friend if you are planning a hike or long walk.
- Make sure to have a bottle of water and some fruit or nutrition bars.
- Bring your charged cellphone and a back-up battery.
Community Walking – Walking in the city poses many risks. Know what is expected of you as a pedestrian
- Cross only at corners or designated crosswalks.
- Stop at the curb and look left-right-left.
- Before stepping off the curb, be sure all vehicles have stopped. Make sure drivers see you.
- Walk in front of parked cars instead of behind them whenever possible.
- Listen for engine noise
- Look for back-up lights.
Walking can be an enjoyable way to not only explore your community but it’s a great way to exercise too! Happy Walking!
Photo Credit: Roosevelt Park, Middlesex County, NJ