Be Safe Walking, Biking
Dear Editor: Many people in Sitka safely and successfully get around by biking or walking throughout the year. It’s an economical, environmentally responsible, and healthful way to commute. However, every day we see people walking and, more commonly, biking in ways that are potentially dangerous to themselves and others. For example, you’ve probably seen (or had trouble seeing!) people biking in dark clothes without any lights when the sun is down, illegally riding against traffic, riding without helmets, not yielding to pedestrians, and more.
Please stop practicing these unsafe behaviors. Make sure your non-motorized commute is done in a safe, legal and wise manner. Following a few simple safety guidelines can make all the difference. Taking extra precaution is particularly critical in the winter months.
Start by doing whatever it takes to make yourself visible to folks in cars and trucks, especially in low lighting. Wear reflective jackets and wristbands. Attach lights to your body or your bike. The best approach is to be visible from all sides.
Use caution on icy days. Even with studded bike tires, it’s usually safer to walk to your destination. Select a smart route, and walk with your hands out of your pockets for balance. If the sidewalks are icy or packed with snow, always wear spikeys on your shoes to improve traction below your feet.
When biking, follow the rules of the road that any car driver would follow. Bike in the same direction as traffic, and give pedestrians the right of way. If conditions are hazardous, get off your bike and walk the rest of the way or jump on the Community Ride.
Needless to say, always wear your helmet when riding your bicycle.
Injuries are predictable and preventable, so please be smart about how you use the roads we all share. In health,
Holly Marban, SEARHC Health Promotion Division,
Health Educator II
Doug Osborne,
Sitka Community Hospital
Director of Health Promotion
