Walking Safely

 Walking is a great way of exercising but like most human activities there are some risk associated with it which can be mitigated if you apply the following safety tips:

• Before stepping out make sure you knot your shoe lace properly to avoid tripping • If going for a long walk make sure someone knows when you expect to be back and the route you would be taking • Carry your mobile phone and some money on you in case of emergency • Ensure you have a means of identification on you (driver’s license etc.) in case you are stopped by law enforcement officers

• Check the weather before stepping out and dress appropriately. You might need an umbrella

• Walk with a known companion (safety in numbers)

• Walk in a familiar area

• Avoid walking in a poorly lit or secluded area

• While walking, be conscious of the environment

• Avoid listening to loud music if wearing headphones (don’t drown out the environment, keep volume low so you can hear what is happening around you)

• Avoid walking after dark

• Avoid walking near bushes (as we enter the warm season snakes and other dangerous reptiles come out to bask in the sun)

• Wear bright coloured clothing to improve your visibility • Vary your route and pattern of walking (for safety and to spice things up) • Carry a whistle or high decibel battery powered personal alarm device when walking alone • If followed, go to the nearest residence, open business or group of people • Always face the oncoming traffic • Don’t assume you have right of way, always ensure pedestrian / zebra crossings are free before you cross (look before you cross)

• Obey traffic signals such as WALK/DON'T WALK signs

• Beware of your environment, watch out for water, bike riders, cracks in the pavement, or any other hazards in your path to avoid tripping and falling

• Always walk on the sidewalk if available

• Don't talk on a cell phone while crossing roads

• Don’t wear expensive and attractive jewellery while walking

• Lastly always follow your instinct