Never assume that a driver sees you, even when you are stopped at a crosswalk or intersection. If you are at a crosswalk, first stop at the curb. Look to the left, to the right and to the left again, and also look over your shoulder for traffic that may be turning. Cross when the road is clear, but take time to look again to the left and right as you go. Be alert for vehicles making a right turn on red.
Carry some form of identification when you leave the house. Although this simple tip can be a lifesaver, many people routinely go out for a run, walk, hike or bike ride without it. At the very least, have a piece of paper with your name, a phone number and any important medical information that you feel would help someone assist you in the event of an emergency.
Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk along the road, always walk facing traffic.
Wear a helmet. Bicycling is the second most popular outdoor activity in the United States. In the last decade, more than 8,000 bicyclists died and 700,000 were injured in traffic-related accidents. More than one-third of these bicyclist fatalities involved riders 5-20 years old, and 41 percent of nonfatal injuries occurred with children under the age of 15.
Medical research shows that wearing a bicycle helmet can prevent 85 percent of cyclists’ head injuries. Helmets do not have to be a costly investment, but are well worth any price.
Next week: Preventing heat illness
Marjie Gilliam is an International Sports Sciences master certified personal trainer and fitness consultant. Write to her in care of the Dayton Daily News, call her at (937) 878-9018 or send email to marjie@ohtrainer.com. Her website is at www.ohtrainer.com.
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