Think Safety First When Walking & Running  

Thanks to our moderate climate and remarkable scenery, outdoor activities are a way of life at The Landings. Additionally, with 91 miles of roads and 30 miles of community paths and trails on The Landings Association’s common property, it is not uncommon to see people walking, running, and cycling all year long. 

Whether you are hitting the paths for exercise or simply to enjoy our beautiful community, it is essential to follow certain rules of safety and etiquette to reduce your risk of injury. Although most of these rules are common sense, many people violate common sense practices every day without realizing it. Please keep these simple safety measures in mind the next time you decide to put on your running shoes. 

• Do not wear earbuds or headphones. You need to be able to hear potential dangers such as vehicles, golf carts, dogs, or other people around you. If you cannot live without your tunes, make sure the volume is low and only use one earbud. 

• Face traffic. If your route does not include a community path and you are on the road, always walk facing oncoming traffic, as it is easier to see and react to vehicles approaching you. 

• Be visible. Wear light-colored clothing with reflective material if you run before dawn or after dark. Use a headlamp (or other light source) so drivers can see you and you can see where you are going. 

• Run or walk with a partner. Not only does this increase your safety, but it also makes your walk or run more enjoyable. If your running partner is your dog, keep him on a short leash so he does not run into traffic or become a trip hazard for other walkers and runners. 

• Keep right. When using one of the community paths, always walk on the right-hand side so that faster walkers can easily pass if necessary. If you are walking with a partner, remember to share the path, as taking over the whole path prevents others from passing. 

• Walk defensively. It sounds silly, but never assume that all road and path users know and follow the rules of the road.  

   Put these basic practices to use every time you journey onto the trails to ensure a safer and more enjoyable walk or run.