Outdoor enjoyment strategy promotes etiquette, safety for all

Medicine Hat – The Parks and Recreation department is launching an ‘Outdoor Enjoyment Strategy’ for May long weekend. As part of this strategy, the ‘Share the Trails’ initiative will return and reminds residents of the importance of practicing courtesy, respect, and safety when enjoying the outdoor trails.

“We have seen a significant increase in activity on our trails since the pandemic, with many individuals exploring them for the first time,” says Kara Brake, business and innovation coordinator, Parks and Recreation. “The campaign aims to foster proper trail etiquette and safety practices so that all community members can safely and responsibly enjoy our trails.”

Hatters can anticipate to see various reminders regarding trail etiquette throughout the summer season including a series of digital ads and videos, featuring locals and numerous modes of transportation. Informative sidewalk decals and signage, bicycle bells, bookmarks, and posters will also be visible throughout the community. In addition, the Parks and Recreation department will be adding two more yellow lines to trails in the north end of the City next month, as well as initiating school contests to encourage safe trail practices, hosting community outdoor events at Towne Square, and recommencing the parks and trails ambassador program in June. These prompts emphasize the importance of staying alert and safe, while remaining predictable to other trail users.

The Heritage Trail Network features multi-use trails and spans more than 155 kilometeres that weave through the city, connecting trail users to nine major parks and green spaces in each neighbourhood.  

“Our trails cater to walkers, cyclists, joggers, families with children and those with four-legged companions,” says Brake. “Not only that, but our trail system is accessed by people of all ages and abilities. We want to make sure everyone feels safe, understanding the rules of the road and that we can share our trails.”

For more information on trail safety and etiquette, please visit: medicinehat.ca/sharethetrails.

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