Tips and Advice for Safe Walking
Prepare
- Wear the right shoes particularly if you are going to walk off made paths such as in the park or countryside. They don't have to be walking boots just flat, secure and comfortable - the more unpredictable and uneven the conditions the better protection you will need.
- Take water to prevent dehydration.
- Use sunscreen or take a hat in the hotter parts of the year.
- Take a water proof jacket if the weather is unpredictable.
- In the winter you may need something warm to put on when you stop or finish so you don't cool down too quickly.
- Plan your route and start off gently, you can build up the distance and speed day by day as you feel more confident. It's best to start off with a short walk so you can assess your own fitness level. We are all much fitter in our memories than we are in reality and you don't want to be put off by doing too much too quickly by causing an injury or just not enjoying the experience.
As the nights draw in don't be put off by the dark evenings. These few simple precautions will help you to keep active through the autumn and winter and keep you fit and ready to make the most of next years good weather.
- Plan your route so you pass some safe places to run to if things go wrong, like busy shops, garages, friend's houses or a police station.
- If possible, walk with a friend.
- Make sure you have your phone, that it's charged and has credit.
- Tell someone your route and stick to it.
Avoid risk
- Avoid badly lit alleyways, subways or car parks.
- Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
- Face oncoming traffic to avoid kerb-crawlers.
- Keep your hands free (i.e. not in your pockets).
- Look confident.
- Don't wear headphones or use your mobile while moving - you won't hear trouble approaching.
- Keep your mind on your surroundings.
- Be aware of darkened doorways - try to stay in the middle of the pavement.
- Put your purse/mobile/iPod in an inside pocket.
- Hide some change in a separate pocket so if your purse is stolen you have some money to get home.
- Keep your keys ready so you can get into your home quickly, if necessary.
What if...?
- You think you're being followed. Trust your instincts. And take action. Cross the road, turning as you do to see who's behind you. If you're still being followed, cross again. Keep moving. Move to a busy area and tell anyone who may be able to help you.
- A car pulls up alongside you. Turn and walk in the other direction - you can turn much faster than a car. Never accept a lift with a stranger or someone you don't know very well, even if you're wet, tired or running late.
- Someone threatens you. Shout and scream for help. Set off your personal alarm, if you have one.
Stay safe and keep active!