Oh, the weather outside can be frightful…

Winter is here, but considering the mild temperatures we’ve been having the last few weeks, you wouldn’t have guessed it. Of course, as much as we hope for more of the same, we know that Mother Nature is unpredictable and real winter weather could be here with the next front. 

We also know that winter in our region can coat sidewalks with everything from sleet and ice to snow and whatever you call that nasty gray slush churned up by cars and plows, making it a bit challenging to get where you’re going.  So, whether you’re walking for exercise or to reach your destination, here are a few winter walking tips to heed from WalkArlington:

1. Be safe and be seen: Follow basic safety rules, like looking both ways before you cross a street, crossing at marked crosswalks, watching for traffic, paying attention to cyclists, and walking to the right on trails and paths. Assume drivers can’t see you and proceed with caution, especially when days are short and weather conditions unfavorable.
   
   
2. Share the way: Be mindful of cyclists, runners, and other trail users. Walk on the right, and listen for bells and audible warnings. Watch for icy spots!
   
   
3. Cover your head and other parts to stay warm: Dress in layers, and don’t forget the mittens or gloves and hat — you lose 35 percent of your body heat through your head.
   
   
4. Wear bright or reflective clothing and stay visible. With fewer daylight hours and often cloudy conditions, it’s important to don a high-visibility outer layer.
   
   
5. Consider the conditions when planning your route. Walk where trees offer some shelter from the wind. In nasty weather, try a shopping mall, where you can walk — and window-shop — without abandoning your walking regimen.

For more safety and comfort tips on walking in winter weather, check out the Winter Walk Guide courtesy of WalkArlington and goDCgo.

 WalkArlington, an initiative of Arlington County Commuter Services within the Department of Environmental Services, gets "more people walking more of the time" by promoting the health, environmental, community-building, and commuting benefits of walking.