Walk Smart for Your Heart

NEW CITY, NY, - Did you know that walking can keep your heart healthy? According to the American Heart Association, research has shown that walking can lower your chances of heart disease. Don’t let the winter weather stop you! You can walk at a mall or take laps around large department or grocery stores. Walking around your house and doing your household chores counts too!

If you walk on roadways, there are rules of the road that need to be followed to avoid getting injured by a motor vehicle. In 2022, pedestrian crashes in Rockland caused 7 fatalities and 193 people were injured.

Follow these New York State Vehicle and Traffic Laws and other safety tips when walking on streets:

• Use the sidewalk if available, if you must walk on the road – walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Wear brightly colored clothing so drivers can easily see you.
• Walk with a flashlight or wear reflective gear after dark.
• Be alert; don’t text or stare at your cell phone while walking.
• Be aware of cars in driveways that may be backing out.
• Wait for a “walk” symbol on traffic lights. If there’s no traffic light, look left, right, then left again before crossing. Cross at a corner, not mid-block.

The Rockland County Department of Health is working with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to educate the community on important traffic safety measures for pedestrians and bicyclists. To schedule a free, interactive, 45-minute presentation at your business, community agency, or faith-based group call the Health Department at (845) 364-2500. For more information on road safety, visit Rockland County Safe Streets website.

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