Teens in Ladera
By Connor Mai
With the weather steadily getting warmer, it’s the perfect time to start heading outside to take in some fresh air. There are many options for thrilling outdoor activities, such as nature walks, picnics, and biking. Ladera Ranch is home to miles of beautiful, scenic trails that span our entire neighborhood.
Our lovely community has plenty of hidden gems, such as art installations, parks, and mountain paths, that add an interesting element of discovery to your journey.
As with everything in life, it is important to think about safety. Cars and motor vehicle safety is worth thinking about this spring. In addition to our own safety, we must think of the safety of others - pedestrians and cyclists who share the road with us. Anticipating varios situations and being prepared for them allows us to be more prepared and to enjoy our time - stress-free.
Here are some safety tips to consider:
- Look both ways before crossing any roads! You can never assume that an approaching car can see you since there are many blind spots during the day and limited visibility at night.
- Use hand signals while entering a bike lane while making a turn. This helps both cyclists and approaching cars so they can anticipate the direction you’re heading and prevent accidents caused by confusion or misunderstanding. See the diagram below.
- While hiking, be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Be prepared with snacks too!
- Wear sunscreen or protective clothing to prevent any damage to your skin.
- When biking, make sure to wear safety articles such as helmets to prevent injuries from accidents!
- Make sure to have your phone with you and fully charge it before you leave in case of an emergency. Let your family or friends know where you are heading so someone knows where you are.
- Keep an eye out for any dangerous animals on the trails, and always watch where you step!
- When out late at night, make sure to have a light source or wear reflective clothing to stay visible. Keep your eyes off your device and focus on your surroundings.
Above all else, stay safe. Enjoy all that our community, trails, and surroundings have to offer. Happy exploring!
