City of Oakland Park, Community, Development, Fitness & Wellness, Lifestyle, Oakland Park, Safety, Sports

7 Safety Trends for Outdoor Activities

Over the past year, many people have started walking and cycling more and more. Younger people in particular (i.e. “Millennials”) are driving fewer miles, waiting longer to get driver’s licenses and using public transportation more frequently. In fact, the increased demand for bicycles has created a shortage of bicycles. Many of us that didn’t own a bike had a hard time even finding one, and it appears that this shortage will carry on to next year. In turn, this has most likely led to the increase we see of those who like to walk and rollerblade or skate.

Keep Moving to Stay Active

Oakland Park offers pedestrian-friendly communities complete with paths and other conveniences, which aids in the improving the quality of life in communities through the increase of safe walking and bicycling as viable means of transportation and physical activity. Keeping our bodies moving is a great way to stay active, healthy, and in shape. Other benefits include taking in the sights of your neighborhood and not to mention save money on gas and of course reduce pollution. You may notice a local business that you normally would’ve overlooked had you drove past it.

Sharing the Roads – Safely

Across the US there are approximately over 80 million cyclists that share the road with millions of motorized vehicles. The importance of safety precautions while traveling either by bicycle or foot cannot be overstated. We encourage you to take extra precautions when riding a bike, skating, or walking through our neighborhoods.

Some tips to abide are as follows:

Be aware of your surroundings, meaning off phone and volume on headphones to a minimum.
When riding a bike or rollerblading, always wear safety equipment (i.e. helmet).
Get acquainted with local traffic laws, cyclists follow the same rules as motorists.
Use hand signals when turning and use extra care at intersections.
In daytime hours, wear bright clothing.
In evening hours, wear reflective clothing and make sure your bike is also equipped with reflectors on the rear, front, pedals, and spokes as well as a horn or bell and bright headlight.
For pedestrians, if there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.

By following these tips walkers and cyclists alike will be safer. They will also be a good example for those that are thinking of taking up walking and cycling as a means of activity or mode of transportation.

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About the Author

Maria Scudella-Beltran

Maria Scudella-Beltran was born and raised in Bergen County, New Jersey, right outside of New York City. She moved to South Florida in 2004 and graduated from Florida International University with a bachelors’ degree in Marketing and Communications.

In 2010, she purchased her first home in the North Andrews Gardens area in Oakland Park. After several years of working in the retail industry, Maria took on a part-time internship at a marketing agency and continued her education through Walden University where she earned her Master’s degree in Marketing and Communications.

Currently, she works in Marketing and during her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and traveling.