KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Everyone is invited to step out and join a walk for better health, to lighten their carbon footprint on the planet and enjoy the local beauty of spring, courtesy of Public Health and elected leaders.
Starting Monday, April 7, to celebrate National Public Health Week and its theme of climate change and health, Public Health is sponsoring daily 30 minute walks. All walks will go from 12:30 to 1 p.m. on Monday through Friday, starting outside the King County Chinook building at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Jefferson Street in downtown Seattle.
King County Executive Ron Sims and Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County, will lead Monday’s walk. King County Council Chair and Board of Health Chair Julia Patterson will lead Tuesday’s walk, while Seattle City Councilmember Jan Drago will head Thursday’s outing.
“Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your health and feel better,” said Dr. Fleming. “Join us on your lunch hour or find time on your own or with friends and family to take a walk.”
King County Executive Ron Sims and Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels have declared April 7-13 Public Health Week for King County and Seattle. This year’s national focus is on making the direct connection between climate change and health effects. Reducing the impact of climate change is important for human health, as global warming will have an affect on air quality, the severity and frequency of extreme weather events, and the spread of disease.
“An important mark of a healthy neighborhood is how well it promotes walking in a safe environment to businesses, transit, school and work,” said Executive Sims. “King County will continue to promote the development of walk-friendly communities that are a win-win for our health and the planet.”
"What better way to reduce your carbon footprint then by making footprints along one of the many wonderful trails and pathways we have in Seattle and the region. Walking is a great way to be active, stay healthy and take a step in the fight against global warming," said Mayor Nickels.
More than 700 King County employees will observe Public Health Week by walking in groups during breaks or lunch throughout the week. The wellness activity is part of the county’s Health Reform Initiative, which has won several national awards for its innovative approach to reducing health care costs by promoting employee health.
“Walking is a great way to ease into an exercise program, and it’s something that almost everyone can enjoy. As part of King County’s effort to be active and combat obesity, I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead a walk,” said Board of Health Chair Patterson.
While walking is an easy and enjoyable way to travel and be physically active, it is important to remember to do it safely. Remember to walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic. Only cross at crosswalks, and consider wearing reflective clothing if walking at night. Drivers should take caution as well:
- Give priority to pedestrians, even at unmarked crosswalks.
- Always stop at least 30 feet before the crosswalk.
- Set the pace for other cars by driving the speed limit.
- Walk the short trips between destinations.
- Park properly and don’t block crosswalks.
Additional information on climate change and health can be found at the National Public Health Week website at www.nphw.org.
For more information about physical activity, nutrition and local activity resources, including suburban walking maps, visit the Public Health Week Web site www.metrokc.gov/health/phweek.
Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.
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