I experienced and witnessed a few safety hazards this past week. Between myself, neighbors, my co-workers, and family, each of us barely avoided what could have been painful accidents. Summer is a busy time and all of us want to enjoy the outdoors. Be safe and mindful of your surroundings, and never assume.
Let's all play nice together.
Earth is a big rock...there is room for everyone and everything. I offer a few precautions in regards to trail safety and pedestrian safety, especially since when some of us fall over, it could be incredibly detrimental to our health.
Trail Etiquette: Hikers, cyclists, trail runners...please alert the person ahead of you to let them know you are "on their left" or "on their right". Never assume they can hear you. A person of any age or ability can have difficulty hearing someone or something behind them. For those who tune out with gadgets and music in nature, I too enjoy this practice, though others also want to play in the sandbox. Be mindful of your steps and scan the path ahead when your thoughts and attention are tuned inward.
Off-Leash Areas: Dear dog owners, a dog should be off-leash only when it is well trained and can play nicely with others (both with 2-footed & 4-footed critters). A wet muddy romp is awesome fun, though not when an especially large dog charges into fragile people out for a hike and nearly knocks them over, covering them with mud. Non-dog owners, be aware of your boundaries around pups...if you are uncomfortable around animals, perhaps find another place to hike or find the confidence to speak loudly and firmly to a misbehaving animal. Either way, an apology and a smile is free.
Sidewalk Maintenance Vehicles: Hey drivers...if someone is walking ahead of you, especially if they are much older than you are (or wearing ear buds or talking on the phone), don't assume they can hear you. Speak up and alert a walker and say "on your left" or "on your right". An old school, "Excuse me" is still a pleasant thing to hear and say. And pedestrians, if facility or maintenance workers are blocking your path and you see them, step out of the way or go around and let them do their job in peace.
Be Safe, Have Fun, & Be Well! ~ Tiffany
