Taking a stroll along a quaint street, window shopping and even walking along city streets to get to an interesting attraction is often part of a

While parents may spend a lot of time talking to their children about biking safety, family strolls are the perfect time to reinforce road safety with children.  As parents we often forget these rules and we tend to think we don't need to follow all the rules all the time.  Just remember, our children are always watching what we do and learn by our example.

• If you are using a stroller, ensure that the stroller is in good condition and never let go of the stroller.  See Tips on Buying and Using Strollers.

• Never let go of stroller.

• Ensure baby is comfortable but that no blankets or toys can become a danger to baby in stroller.

• Keep infants in a rear facing position if possible so that you can watch the infant.

• Keep strollers well back at all intersections.

• If you are using a back or front carrier, ensure that the infant and the carrier are suited for each other.  Infants that do not have strong neck control should never be placed in a back carrier.  See Tips on Buying and Using Front and Back Carriers.

• Observe the Rules of the Road

• Avoid carrying baby in your arms or on your shoulders.

• Never use a baby walker on a sidewalk or driveway.  See

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

• Practice Sun Safety, especially for the infant.  See Sun Safety Tips. 

• Take along some diapers, baby food (if needed) and an extra blanket for baby.

• Carry a cell phone and some money in case of emergency.

• Be careful in slippery conditions and avoid walking near water.  Be especially careful on slopes and stairs.

• Watch for car doors opening on the sidewalk side that may hit the stroller.

• Always look both ways and exercise caution when crossing at a cross walk or intersection.  It is important to not just look at the cars stopped at the intersection but any approaching vehicles and cyclists as well.
• Even when crossing an intersection at a green light it is still important to look all ways and watching for turning cars.
• Make eye contact with drivers to be sure you have been seen you and that all cars have come to a complete stop before crossing at an intersection or cross walk.
• Constantly reinforce and demonstrate safety rules when walking with children and even by yourself - you never know who may be watching.
• Stay away from and never go into a car with a stranger.
• Children should always tell parents where they are going. All adults should always leave a note at home when they are going for a walk too - noting their destination and route in case of emergency.

• Teach children to walk in safe areas - avoid parking lots, paths through wooded areas, secluded areas, loose gravel and busy roads.

• Don't let children walk alone at night.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing for night or evening walks.

• Watch for cyclists.

• Walk across cross-walks and intersections only.  Do not cross the street between intersections and parked cars.
• Be aware of driveways and lanes.  Look both ways and stop before crossing.  This is especially important to teach young children.
• When walking on roads without sidewalks always walk on the side of the road facing traffic and as close to the edge as possible.
• Stay out of ditches and away from ponds, streams and rivers - see First Aid Safety Tips from St. John's Ambulance - Dangers of Spring Rivers.
• Stay away from school buses and other buses.
• If you hear a siren, it is best to move away from the road as far as possible, stop and wait until the emergency vehicle has passed before continuing on your walk.
• Children under 9 should not walk alone.
• Come to a complete stop at all stop signs and obey all other road signs.
• Walk across all intersections, obeying traffic signals - never run across an intersection.
• Never walk along or on railroad tracks and bridges.  Use caution when crossing railroad tracks.  Never cross railroad tracks when signals are flashing or you hear a train whistle.
• While dogs and puppies may be cute, it is never to early to teach children to stay away from strange dogs, even if they are on a leash and the owner says it is okay.  Even a well known dog can pose a danger.
• Be careful with umbrellas - sharp points can injure and cause damage to eyes.
• Look for immediate indoor shelter during thunderstorms - check the weather before heading out.
• Skipping and throwing balls while walking should be avoided.
• Plan routes that are not too long for the age of the youngest walker.
• Consult with your local library, government offices and health departments for booklets, programs and guides about road safety.
• If visiting a playground as part of a walk practice playground safety.  See Playground Safety Tips
• Ensure children's outwear does not have drawstrings - see Danger of Strangulation from Drawstrings on Children's Outerwear

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Safety and Walking Gear

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ALSO SEE:

Biking Safety Tips

First Aid Tips

In-line Skating Safety Tips

Playground Safety Tips

Tips for Happy Feet while Travelling

Danger of Strangulation from Drawstrings on Children's Outerwear

First Aid Safety Tips from St. John's Ambulance - Dangers of Spring Rivers

See the following sections for specific tips:

For General Travel Safety Tips Click on 

For Pool Safety Tips Click on

For Safety Tips when visiting Petting Zoos and Animal Farms Click Below:

For Car Safety Tips Click on

For Hotel Safety Tips Click on

For Playground Safety Tips Click on

For Fire Safety Tips Click on

For Winter Holiday Safety Tips Click on

For Kids Club Safety Tips Click on

For Sun Safety Tips Click on

For Safety Tips - Severe Allergic Reactions Click on

For Safety Tips for Using Public Washrooms Click on

For First Aid Tips Click on

For Tips on Buying Safe Toys Click Below:

For Seasonal Holiday Safety Tips Click Below:

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