Walking Trails

Safer Steps: Walking Trail Safety for Residents

Whether you are exercising, walking a pet, or enjoying time outdoors, a few simple precautions can make your walk safer. Check trail conditions before you start, wear supportive footwear, and stay alert along the way.

Check the Trail Surface

Look ahead, slow down on wet or uneven surfaces, and use a different route when a trail does not appear safe. Watch for common trip hazards, including:

Raised concrete, cracks, potholes, or crumbling pavement
Exposed roots and sudden changes in surface height
Loose gravel, branches, leaves, or other debris
Uneven transitions at curbs, driveways, and crossings
Give damaged areas plenty of space. If you cannot pass safely, turn around or choose another route.
Allow extra space when passing areas with roots, curbs, or loose gravel.
Avoid stepping onto landscaped areas, which may conceal holes or irrigation equipment.

Be Cautious When Paths Are Wet

Rain, irrigation, wet leaves, mud, algae, and ice can make trails slippery. Puddles may also hide cracks or uneven pavement.

Slow down when conditions change, avoid slippery sections, and follow all cones, barricades, and trail closures.
Check the weather before leaving and postpone your walk during severe conditions.
Walk at a comfortable pace and avoid sudden turns on wet surfaces.
Do not walk through standing water, which may be deeper or more slippery than it appears.
During winter, avoid walking on iced over pavement.

Wear Proper Footwear

Wearing the right footwear when walking is essential for protecting your joints, preventing injuries, and ensuring a natural, pain-free stride. Properly fitted shoes distribute your body weight evenly, which reduces strain on your ankles, knees, and lower back. Below are some safety tips to keep you safe while using walking trails in the community.

Choose secure, well-fitting shoes with supportive soles and good tread.
Replace shoes with worn, smooth soles, and tie laces before you begin.
Select closed-toe walking or athletic shoes appropriate for the trail surface.
Wear socks that help reduce friction and keep feet comfortable.
Check soles for embedded stones or damage before heading out.

Stay Alert and Visible

Cellphones can distract you from uneven surfaces, approaching bicycles, vehicles, and other trail users. Watch for hazards and follow the safety tips below:

Keep your phone put away while walking, and stop in a safe location before reading a message, making a call, or changing music.
Set headphone volume low enough to hear people, bicycles, and vehicles.
After dark, use well-lit routes, carry a flashlight, and wear reflective items especially near driveways and parking areas.
At crossings, stop, look in every direction, and confirm that approaching vehicles have stopped before you proceed.
Tell someone your planned route when walking alone or after dark.
Keep to designated paths and avoid poorly lit shortcuts.

Share the Trail

Leave room for others to pass, avoid stopping in the center of the trail, and keep children close at crossings or uneven surfaces.
Follow community leash rules, keep pet leashes from stretching across the trail, and pick up pet waste promptly.
Keep to one side so faster walkers and cyclists can pass safely.
Announce yourself before passing and give others adequate space.
Use extra care around blind corners and areas with limited visibility.

Report Trail Hazards

Report damaged pavement, standing water, slippery buildup, blocked paths, or broken lighting to your community office. Share the exact location and, if it is safe, include a photo.
Leave repairs and safety barriers to authorized staff. A prompt report can help protect everyone who uses the trail.
Note a nearby building, trail marker, or landmark to help identify the location.
Keep a safe distance from the hazard while making your report.
For an immediate threat or emergency, move to a safe area and contact emergency services.

Before your next walk: Check your shoes, scan the trail ahead, and choose a clear, well-lit route.