Health Happenings is a biweekly column published in Alamogordo Daily News as a way to provide the latest in health and wellness information, services and events. Articles for this column are submitted by Health Council partners, but do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Otero County Community Health Council.
By: Sharon Hodges
The Otero County Walkability Group – OWAG is a partnership of community members that represent a variety of entities such as the City of Alamogordo, Alamogordo Public Safety, Alamogordo Public Schools, the Boys & Girls Club of Otero County, Breakfast Lions Club, Otero County Community Health Council, Otero County Safe Kids Coalition, Otero PATH, Space City Sertoma, NMSU/PSI and the Otero County Public Health Office. OWAG has members with disabilities and works with the disabled community to identify barriers to their personal and collective mobility.
The purpose of OWAG is to increase awareness of pedestrian safety and Walkability concerns throughout Otero County. OWAG works closely with the University of New Mexico Department of Emergency Medicine - Center for Injury Prevention and Research and Education - NM Pedestrian Safety Institute.
Pedestrian safety is not just for children. Although most us grew up hearing the pedestrian safety messages, how many of us really know the New Mexico laws as they pertain to pedestrians? These restrictions/laws are put in place to keep pedestrians safe. It only makes sense that if you are not abiding by these restrictions you are more likely to be injured.
Did you know pedestrian restrictions/laws vary from state to state and from city to city in New Mexico? Cities in our state are authorized to mandate crossing only at designated crosswalks and to prohibit crossing at any other points. Unless otherwise prohibited, pedestrians can cross a street at any point but the vehicle has the right of way. Pedestrians are not allowed to stand out in the streets for the purpose of trying to get a ride or soliciting of any kind. Although pedestrians do have the right of way in cross walks, one should never assume that vehicle drivers are always paying attention. It is very important to be aware of vehicle traffic and when necessary take precautions.
OWAG is about education and action. The members have organized the annual Walk, Bike and Roll to School event. OWAG also sponsors the children pedestrian safety and walking summer program at the Boys & Girls Club. The youth participants go on weekly walking field trips to different parts of town. While walking, the camp counselors explain good pedestrian safety rules. These include stoplight safety, crossing the street, use of crosswalks and sidewalks. The group leaders have an interactive dialog about how react when they encounter moving vehicles. The leaders also use pedometers and log in their collective steps. There are added incentives such as tennis shoes to the members of the group that has logged the most steps. The steps are converted into miles so the children can track how far they have walked and set goals for their groups. The youth are also encouraged to identify unsafe conditions and hazards. This information is passed on to OWAG members to share with the appropriate entities. OWAG partners and Walk Otero are in the process of planning a community spring event. Along with a variety of children and family activities, there will be a community walk to promote daily physical activity and pedestrian safety. As in the past, participants in the walk will receive a commemorative tee shirt. The date and location of this event will be announced by the 1st of February through flyers and media PSA’s. The programs, activities and the walking event are funded by a grant from the NM Pedestrian Safety Institute. If you have any questions about OWAG or are interested in getting involved, please contact OWAG Chair – Bob Woods at bmw@cyermesa.com