The month of October has been designated as National Pedestrian Safety Month. What better time to discuss some basic safety tips along with some of the great resources we have right here in Northeast Wisconsin? The first rule of safety for those walking is situational awareness. Whether you are walking on a sidewalk, roadside or trail system, be mindful of your surroundings. I am not a big fan of headphones being worn while on walks, runs or even riding bikes, as it creates what is known as a “Micro-environment.” This is to say that you have closed yourself off from what is going on around you and limiting yourself from one of your greatest physical senses, which is your hearing. The ability to hear vehicles approaching while adjacent to a roadway is critical in awareness. The ability to hear the footsteps of others as they approach you on a trail is just as important. Aside from the obvious health benefits of exercising outdoors, enjoying the sights, smells, and sounds is just as valuable.
The next key safety component is being seen. While I cannot make any guarantees that each and every motor vehicle driver is attentive at any given time, I can assure you that any and all attention you draw to yourself as a pedestrian will increase your awareness and thus improve your chances. As it pertains to walking attire, the brighter, the better. I have even seen the use of blinking lights on vests to improve visibility. In fact, as we draw near to the various hunting seasons, Blaze Orange may be a great choice of colors for you to consider. If you are walking adjacent to a road or have the need to cross any roads, take extra caution. If you are about to cross, even in a marked crosswalk, make sure that any vehicles in close proximity see you and are going to yield. Don’t assume anything.
While for many, the only option for getting out and walking is along roadsides, we are very fortunate to have the Ahnappee trail system right here in our backyard. This trail system provides a truly scenic and peaceful option for what we call the “Silent Sports”. This trail has starting points at numerous sites throughout our county, with each section of the trail having its own unique characteristics and surroundings. Portions of the Ahnapee Trail are also designated as sections of the Ice Age Trail, which runs throughout our state and draws a large number of enthusiasts from around the country. The City of Algoma was recently designated as an Ice Age Trail Community.
In an age where our society struggles with sedimentary lifestyles and the resulting health implications, the need to get out and walk, run, bike, or hike could not be more vital to our quality of life. Having a trail that is free from motorized vehicles is truly a local treasure that can and should be appreciated. As we continue into the beautiful fall season, this treasure and the tranquility it provides should be at the top of our bucket list of activities.
Regardless of your pedestrian journey, always keep safety as a priority!
