Walking and biking tips for winter break

Published on December 04, 2024

Winter break begins this month, providing a great opportunity for families to walk and bike together. The Menlo Park Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program encourages families to follow the below safety tips to have an active, safe and fun holiday season!

1) Be prepared for early darkness by being visible

With the time change and shorter daylight hours, it’s important to remain visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially during the nighttime or early morning hours. People biking should have a front white light and a rear red light equipped to their bicycles (it’s the law!). People walking can carry a flashlight or equip clip-on LEDs to be more visible to others.

2) Check out the Safe Routes to School suggested routes

The SRTS program has developed a citywide map of suggested routes for people walking and biking in Menlo Park. This map identifies low volume, low speed streets that may be more comfortable to people walking and biking. Check out an interactive Citywide safe routes map here.

3) Review walking and biking safety lessons

Winter break is a good time to refresh on safety basics. Remind kids to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. By law, people biking should ride in the same direction as traffic and use hand signals. For more information, check out the Menlo Park SRTS resources page to access safety and educational information geared towards children.

4) Find a buddy

If appropriate to travel without a parent or caretaker, try encouraging children to walk or bike with a friend. The buddy system can provide extra comfort and company while walking or biking to their destinations. Menlo Park's SRTS Community Supporter businesses provide safe spaces for kids to wait if they do not feel safe outside for any reason.

5) Dress warm

Lastly, don’t forget that winters in Menlo Park can be chilly or damp. Layered clothing and water-resistant jackets help keep kids feel comfortable walking and biking during the winter months. Sturdy, closed toe shoes are also important, especially for muddy pathways and to play in puddles!

By following these easy safety tips, Menlo Park families can enjoy an active and fun winter break! For additional resources or to learn more about the Menlo Park SRTS program, please visit the program website.