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A stop sign and pedestrian crossing sign
Well marked pedestrian crosswalks are part of an activity-friendly community.

Photo by Judy Kavanagh

Safer communities > What your organization can do

What your organization can do

Some community-level changes require long-term action to influence policies and practices. Others involve simple steps you can take to make a difference in the short term, such as

  • Providing information and learning opportunities for your members about the problems created by hazards.
  • Conducting regular audits of your neighbourhood and encouraging members to do the same, and reporting hazards to proper local authorities.
  • Reaching out to other groups in your community for support and partnerships to begin working together for lasting change.

Activity-friendly neighbourhoods and communities are safe and inviting

Safe

  • Features that promote personal safety (for example, good lighting) are present.
  • Pedestrian safety concerns are addressed (for example, crossing lights provide adequate time on busy streets).
  • Sidewalks, stairs, floors and other areas where people walk are free of hazards.

Inviting

  • Paths link homes to shopping, schools and businesses inviting everyone to walk.
  • Walkways have shade, wind protection and benches, and are visually appealing.
  • Walkways pass by pleasant spots such as parks and rivers, encouraging people to be out and about.

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Last modified June 29, 2004