Counselor's Corner: Safe Routes to School

Counselor's Corner:  

 Safe Routes to School: Walking in a Winter Wonderland

The days may be shorter, but winter is still a good time for walking and biking! Be sure to review these tips before walking to school, a park, or anywhere this winter:

• Be safe and be seen. Follow basic safety rules. Look both ways before you cross the street, cross at marked crosswalks, watch for traffic, and pay attention to cyclists. Assume drivers can't see you and proceed with caution, especially when days are short and weather conditions are unfavorable.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing, and carry a flashlight to stay visible. With fewer daylight hours and cloudy conditions, it is important to wear a high-visibility outer layer. 
• Share the way. Be mindful of cyclists, runners, and other trail users. Walk on the right, and listen for bells and audible warnings.
• Walk with friends or in places where there are other walkers, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
• Suppress the cold-weather hibernation instinct by thinking "brisk" and"invigorating" for your walks. Dress in layers to stay warm.  Don't forget your mittens or gloves and a hat. You can lose 35 percent of your body heat through your head! Watch for icy spots along routes.
• Pay extra attention to your feet. Wear warm socks with room for toe wiggling. Lace up walking shoes with plenty of traction for those occasional icy patches.