Minnetonka Preaches Safety When Walking, Biking in Winter

The city of Minnetonka is reminding residents to stay alert when walking or biking this winter. Minnesota winters are dark, but this year seems especially dark during the early morning or evening hours due to the lack of snow, says the city.

Minnetonka's Community Relations Manager Jacqueline Larson tells KSTP.com, its particularly important for those walking on the shoulder of streets.

Several residents have called the city with concerns about the safety of pedestrians who wear dark clothing or walk with their backs to traffic and are difficult for drivers to spot. In response to those concerns, the city has released the following tips on how to protect residents from a potentially dangerous situation:

• If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk on the road, walk facing traffic
• Wear bright or light-colored clothing and/or a reflective vest
• Be aware of your surrounds
• Keep away from parked cars so drivers can see you
• Cross only at intersections or crosswalks

Larson says there haven't been any incidents or accidents reported. The city posted the safety reminders as a precaution.