Nothing is more important to walk organizers than your safety. Please review the following safety tips and start integrating them into your training regimen right away. Adhering to these safety guidelines now will help to insure your safety on the Avon Walk.

• Follow the rules of the road.  This includes obeying all traffic lights, signs and signals.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are walking alone. Familiarize yourself with traffic flow, bicycle traffic, other pedestrians and safe stopping places along your route.
• Do not walk with headphones or cell phones. These can distract you and being distracted leaves you vulnerable to injury. The use of headphones and cell phones is strictly forbidden while walking on the Avon Walk.
• When possible, train with a buddy or at least notify someone what route you will be taking, when you are leaving and when you plan to return.
• Always carry money and ID.
• Wear reflective clothing when walking in the early morning or evening hours.
• It is important that you remain hydrated while you walk. You should be drinking every half-hour to hour during your walk. A lot will depend on the temperature; the more you sweat, the more you will want to drink. Energy drinks and electrolyte replacement drinks replace the salt lost by sweating. It’s recommended that you alternate between water and a sports drink. Remember, if you are thirsty, you are already beginning to dehydrate. Dehydration can lead to serious physical problems. Drink before you are thirsty.
• Keep your blood sugar boosted by eating an energy bar (or equivalent) about an hour before your walk. On your longer walks, carry a nutrition bar or other snack and stop to eat. When you don’t replenish your body with nutrients, you are more susceptible to dehydration and lowered blood sugar.
• As the distance increases, the pace should decrease. Be sure to rest between longer walks.
• Be conscious of the weather -- apply sunscreen when necessary, carry an umbrella or wear rain gear, bring an additional pair of socks, etc.
• Listen to your body -- it always knows best! If you are too sore or feel a possible injury coming on, stop. If you think you need medical attention, get it. Walking through an injury can only make it worse. Eat and drink when you need to. Get enough rest -- it’s as important to your training program as the walking itself.

For more safety information, click here.