Clackmannanshire Council Online

Safer Routes to School - Information for Pupils

Safer Routes to School - Information for Pupils

Ten Good Reasons to Walk to School Together

1. It’s fun
2. It’s healthy
3. It’s non-polluting
4. It’s friendly
5. It reduces stress
6. It’s a chance to teach and learn road safety skills
7. It’s considerate
8. It’s educational
9. It’s economical
10. It’s a way to cut traffic congestion at the school gates

So, what are the benefits of walking or cycling to school?

• Walking or cycling can refresh the mind, reduce fatigue and increase energy levels.
• More than half the body's muscles are designed for walking. It is a natural movement that is virtually injury free.
• Walking provides an enjoyable time for sharing and socialising with friends and family.
• Regular brisk walking or cycling can reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. They can also improve digestion and increase a persons metabolic rate.
• Walking strengthens bones.
• Walking or cycling can relieve stress and tension.
• Walking or cycling can give you a feeling of well being.
• Cycling and brisk walking are also aerobic activities. Aerobic activities train the heart, lungs and muscles to work efficiently.

Remember the Green Cross Code

1. Think first – Find a safe place to cross, then stop. Make sure you can see the traffic clearly in all directions.
2. Stop – Stand on the pavement near the kerb
3. Use your eyes and ears – Look and listen for oncoming traffic. Watch out for bicycles.
4. Wait until it is safe – Don’t hurry. If traffic is coming let it pass. Only cross when there is a safe gap in the traffic.
5. Look and listen again – When there is no traffic near, walk straight across the road. Don’t run.
6. Arrive Alive – Keep looking and listening for traffic while you cross. Walk straight across the road.