Shake off the winter blues this Winter Walk Month

While winter may tempt you to stay cozy indoors, outside activities like walking, even during the cold weather, are important and can boost your physical health, uplift your mood and strengthen your overall well-being.

This February, the City of Mississauga recognizes Winter Walk Month and encourages students and their families to walk or roll to school or the bus stop. Do you live far away from your school or bus stop? Consider being dropped off five to 10 minutes away and walk or roll the rest of the way to reach your destination. Fewer vehicles in school zones also promote road safety and is more environmentally friendly.

Why walk or roll to school in the winter?

Staying active in the cold months has many benefits:

• Even a small dose of fresh air every day can enhance your mental health, boost your mood and reduce stress levels.
• Getting your steps in if you’re walking improves your physical health and cardiovascular activity.
• It provides an opportunity to take a break from screen time.
• It could increase your time spent socializing with friends and family.
• Fewer vehicles in school zones can improve road safety in these areas.
• Choosing walking or rolling over driving lowers carbon emissions which promotes a healthier environment for our communities.

Not a student? You can still enjoy all these benefits. Whether you’re walking or rolling to work or just looking to stay active outdoors, take this opportunity to socialize with friends and family and discover new places in your neighbourhood and beyond. Find a new park or a trail near you to make winter more scenic and enjoyable.

Walking and rolling safety tips

Winter weather can be challenging at times, but it should not stop you from enjoying outdoor activities like walking or rolling. Remember to:

• Dress warmly to stay comfortable.
• Be alert – stay cautious crossing the road especially around large snowbanks.
• Cross the road at a designated crossing and/or with a crossing guard when possible.
• When taking the bus, maintain a safe distance from the curb and wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before boarding.
• Give yourself extra time to get to your destination as sometimes walking or rolling in the snow takes a bit longer.

The City is committed to get you where you need to be safely this winter. That’s why, and new this year, Mississauga is delivering citywide sidewalk clearing. Within 24 to 36 hours after the snow has stopped residential sidewalks will be cleared, making it easier for you to walk or roll to your destination.

You don’t have to put outdoor activities on hold until the weather gets better. Stay active this winter season and remember to be extra cautious while walking or rolling in the snow, slush or rain.

Visit mississauga.ca/schoolroutes to access custom maps to plan a safe and active route to school.

Learn more about Region of Peel’s Winter Walk Month.

Tags

• Active Transportation
• Children & Youth
• Students
• Things to Do