Safety and Comfort
In addition to dressing appropriately, please consider the following to ensure that your walks are as safe and comfortable as possible!
Time of Day and Weather
The time of day matters. As a pedestrian, it is much safer to walk during a time of day when it is light outside rather than when it is dark so that you can see and be seen by others. In addition, inclement weather like rain, snow, or sleet, and even extreme heat or cold can prevent you from walking safely and comfortably. Either invest in the right clothing -- or in an alternative, like an indoor track, treadmill or a gym membership. Join the Ballston Mallwalkers, or check out the Crystal City walkabout, or some other way to walk indoors.
If you chose to walk at dusk or at night, wear light colored clothing, preferably with reflective materials on them. You may also want to wear a reflective vest, belt or LED blinking light, or carry a flashlight to make sure you are seen by motorists and bicyclists. Cars may present the biggest threat, but the headlights of bicyclists commuting home after dark on multi-use trails are typically not as bright as an automobile's, making pedestrians not wearing reflective clothing difficult to see.
Safety in Numbers
Walk with someone, even if it's a furry four-legged friend! If you're in the Arlington area, join or start a walking group. If it's not possible to walk with someone else, be sure to tell someone where you will be walking and about what time you expect you'll be back.
Water
Drink plenty of water before and after walking, as well as during walks to prevent dehydration. Carry at least one full water bottle per walker (the size will depend on the season, the length and vigor of your walk and the availability of refills along the way). There are many types of water bottles -- and almost as many types of carriers -- which help reduce strain on your wrist and elbow. Hip packs are our favorites. Or bring along your backpack!
Sun Protection
If it's bright outside don't forget to wear sunscreen! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests wearing sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher with both UV-A and UV-B protection when you're going to be outdoors. Be sure to put on sunscreen about 30 minutes before heading outdoors so your skin soaks it up, and reapply often as sweating can wash it off. Take a look at CDC's fact sheet on applying sunscreen for more information. Wearing a hat and sunglasses with 100% UV ray protection is also a good idea.
What to Wear
Wear bright colors to increase your visibility by others. If it's dark out, wear reflectors or a light. In order to stay comfortable, it's important to dress in relation to the weather. For more information on what to wear while walking visit our clothing section.
Pay Attention to Your Environment
It's tempting to take a cell phone, radio or talking book on a walk. But being unaware of the sights and sounds in your environment can mean missing important safety cues - for example, when you are cossing busy streets, or walking alone after dark. Plus, there is so much to see and hear all around - like the melodies of songbirds and the intense colors of spring blooms. Choose to pay attention to the world aound you - and you won't miss those headphones for long!
Optional Extras
A small first-aid kit may be wise to bring along for longer and more intense walks. If it would make you feel more comfortable, carry a cell phone and/or pepper spray for emergencies in a small fanny pack, backpack, or any bag that is comfortable to carry while walking.
Resources for Walking in Safety
For more tips, check out WalkingAndHiking, a public interest website focused on walking, trekking, and rambling in safety.
