Free armbands are available to walkers, runners and cyclists; supporting them to stay safe and be seen while out and active in darkness.
NHS Western Isles’ Health Promotion department, in partnership with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Sport & Health Section and the Lewis & Harris and Uist & Barra Sports Councils are distributing free hi-vis armbands across the islands following a similar successful initiative last year.
Our rural islands include many unlit roads, marked walkways and pavements; increasing the risk of harm to active people. Hi-vis clothing can increase the visibility of participants, allowing other road users to see them more clearly and reducing the risk of harm for all road users.
Karen Peteranna, NHS Western Isles Health Improvement Practitioner, said: “It’s easy to consider hibernating in winter when the days are shorter and there is a nip in the air but the health benefits from being active all year round make it worthwhile wrapping-up and getting outside. If you are active outdoors please pop by your local Sports Centre and collect a hi-vis armband to help you Be Active, Stay Safe and Be Seen.”
People undertaking outdoor activity may like to consider other measures to increase their safety including: • Investing in additional hi-vis clothing e.g. vest, trousers, jacket and lights • Walking towards the traffic (when there are no walkways or pavements) – so you are aware of approaching traffic and you can react quickly • Avoiding using headphones – so you can hear traffic approaching • Limiting time spent looking at your phone – so you are aware of your surroundings and approaching traffic
- Investing in additional hi-vis clothing e.g. vest, trousers, jacket and lights
- Walking towards the traffic (when there are no walkways or pavements) – so you are aware of approaching traffic and you can react quickly
- Avoiding using headphones – so you can hear traffic approaching
- • Limiting time spent looking at your phone – so you are aware of your surroundings and approaching traffic
Drivers can do their bit to ensure the safety of other road users too. Be alert to other road users, be patient and give cyclists space when passing; at least 1.5 metres <30MPH and at least 2 metres >30MPH.
Free hi-vis armbands are available for collection now from all Sports Centres: • Lewis – Stornoway, Lionel & Shawbost • Tarbert • Liniclate • Castlebay
- • Lewis – Stornoway, Lionel & Shawbost
- • Tarbert
- • Liniclate
- • Castlebay
There is a limited stock in each location. Distribution will be limited to one hi-vis armband per person.
Iain GG Campbell, CnES Sports Development Services Manager, commented: “There has been a remarkable increase in the number of people taking part in walking, jogging or cycling activities in recent years; something we obviously encourage. We are pleased that through this partnership we are able to provide some support to those wanting to maintain activity levels through the winter months. We are keen to raise awareness of the increased need to make sure people can be seen when out and about in the dark.”
Photo (L-R): Karen Peteranna, NHSWI Health Improvement Practitioner; Iain GG Campbell, CnES Sports Development Services Manger; and Liz Rogers, Lewis & Harris Sports Council Chair