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Safe Walking Tips

Page updated: Wednesday April 11 2012

Plan your route and be prepared

• Don't wander off trails.
• Walk in places where you feel safe.
• Consider if you’ll need to cross major streets with busy traffic. Visit Peel Trails Map to locate and visualize exact destination before proceeding.
• If you go out alone, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Dress for the weather; consider walking indoors if it’s too hot, cold, windy or wet outside.
• Check the Clean Air Peel website for the daily Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and the Ultraviolet (UV) Index to plan outdoor activities accordingly and to protect your health.
• Carry a cell phone, your identification and your medical information.
• Carry water with you. Drink at least 150 ml of water for every 15 to 20 minutes of walking.

Avoid strains

• Start slow, stretch your muscles and be sure to warm up and cool down.
• Don’t carry weights. Weights can affect the way you walk and cause strain or muscle injury.
• Stop walking if you feel any aches or pains.
• Be sure to wear appropriate walking shoes.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Walk facing the traffic and against the traffic flow if there is no sidewalk.
• Make eye contact with drivers and obey all traffic laws.
• Walk in daylight or in well-lit areas.
• Wear reflective or bright coloured clothing at night.
• Make sure your valuables and identification are hidden close to your body.
• Keep your earphone volume low or wear an earphone in only one ear.
• Turn your music off in situations or places where you need to be alert.

Source:
Canadian Fitness & Lifestyle Research Institute