Active transportation is good for everyone! Active transportation is any form of human powered travel like walking, biking, rollerblading or skateboarding. It can help:
- Improve health and wellness
- Reduce vehicle traffic and increase safety
- Improve air quality and help the environment
- Make you feel alert and focused when you arrive at school or work
- Strengthen community connection
Choose active transportation for:
- Commuting to and from work
- Commuting to and from school
- Shopping, visiting friends, running errands, etc.
- Fitness and recreation
Winter Walking Safety
During the winter months, many factors can cause a slip, fall or injury. Footwear, balance, distractions and environmental
factors such as temperature or snowfall can all impact your safety. Yet physical activity throughout the year is an important part of staying healthy. As we age, regular regular activity helps prevent falls and fractures. So how can we stay active - safely - throughout these long winter months?
- Monitor the forecast and plan for the weather.
- Dress in layers in preparation for changing winter weather. Stay warm by wearing a hat, scarf and gloves.
- Wear bright colours so you can be seen.
- Wear something reflective at night.
- Choose warm, stable footwear – look for well-insulated and lightweight footwear with a non-slip tread sole.
- Consider a cane or walking poles, use ice grippers on footwear and assistive devices when outside.
- Consider carrying a baggie of sand or clean cat litter in your pocket. If you see ice, throw some sand or cat litter down for better grip.
Read more in our Winter Walking brochure, or download our Winter Walking infographic, shown below.
For general winter safety tips, visit the Government of Canada - get prepared!
Find local routes, trails and other activities
Explore these resources for Oxford, Elgin and St. Thomas:
- Outdoor Recreation – Elgin County Tourism
- Parks, Recreation and Property Management – City of St. Thomas
- St. Thomas Trails Map
- Trails in Oxford County – Oxford County
- Ride Oxford – Tourism Oxford
- Bike Safety