Woodstock is spearheading a new trail safety initiative on its Greenprints Trail System: a Trail Watch Volunteer Program that will enlist local residents and trail users to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Trail Watch volunteers promote safety and appropriate trail use by providing information and assistance to visitors. They observe and document safety issues requiring attention and assist the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department and Woodstock police to keep the trails safe and well-maintained.
Working independently, Trail Watch volunteers act as the “eyes and ears” for park staff and a “force multiplier” for public safety efforts. They also may be called upon as a vital link in the EMS chain.
The program is basically a “Neighborhood Watch” on our trails. It enlists current trail hikers, cyclists, skaters and walkers to help the city monitor its trails and parks.
Volunteers are identified by a brightly colored vest or T-shirt and a city-issued ID card. They must be 18 years of age, pass a background check and attend a mandatory two-hour training class. For individuals without first aid and CPR certifications, an 8-hour course is offered covering those subjects.
Woodstock currently has nearly 20 miles of trails. When completed, its Greenprints Trail System will have more than 60 miles of trails in and around Woodstock and adjacent areas of Cherokee County.
With recent events on the Silver Comet and other metro Atlanta trails bringing trail safety to the forefront of everyone’s minds, the Trail Watch Volunteer Program should help create vital link between trail users and public safety personnel.
Here are some important trail safety tips:
Don’t walk or ride alone. Whenever possible, take a friend and enjoy the trail with someone else. While walking, jogging or biking on any trail, make sure a responsible person knows your plans, where you will be and when you expect to return. Carry identification that includes your name, phone number, pertinent medical information and emergency contact. Take a cell phone. Make sure you can quickly make a call in case of an emergency.
Wear bright colors so you can be seen. Don’t use the trails after dark. Make sure music from your iPod or other device isn’t too loud, so you can hear people passing or approaching. Do not leave valuables visible in your parked vehicle; store them in the trunk or other secure place. Know your location. Choose or plan routes on paths frequently used by walkers, joggers and bikers. If an incident occurs, do not risk your safety to protect things that can be replaced. If you see something, say something: Call 911.
To apply for the Trail Watch Academy, visit our website, www.woodstockparksandrec.com, or call Woodstock Parks and Recreation, 770-517-6788.
