Sidewalks should be safe enough for outdoor exercisers

Anyone who is out before sunrise has seen them; droves of "walkers" getting their exercise before breakfast.

And now that the days are getting shorter, they're out after sundown, plying the streets in sweats and cross-trainers, chatting with their walking partner or tuned in to their iPods.

The exercisers should be commended. And, according to the Trust for America's Health, more of us need to be out there with them. The group said obesity rates increased in 31 states last year.

In Nebraska, 23 percent are considered obese. That's better than Kansas, with 24 percent, and definitely better than Mississippi, the worst, where 30 percent are obese.

The best? Colorado, where 18 percent are classified as obese -- but even Colorful Colorado has no reason to boast. Like every other state, its obesity rate is climbing.

So it's a good thing exercise is popular.

But these shorter days mean more and more of the spare time we use for exercise comes in the dark. And, unless the weather is bad or we prefer working out at the health club or rec room, that means more of us will be out on the streets in low-visibility conditions.

It's a good time for a reminder that homeowners are required to keep their sidewalks reasonably clear. In the winter, that means clear of snow by 10 a.m. after the snow stops. This time of year, it means clear of those overhanging limbs and encroaching shrubs that are hazardous in the dark. It also means not blocking them with parked cars.

Sidewalk repair is a bigger issue and takes some planning and budgeting, but it's also the property owner's responsibility.

And, pets are nice, but nobody enjoys being barked at or worse by a vicious dog -- it's also the owner's job to keep passers-by safe.

If you exercise in the dark, make sure you wear light-colored clothing and you or your bicycle are equipped with reflectors. And, when you're driving in the early morning darkness or after sundown, keep a sharp eye out for pedestrians or bicyclists.

A local hike-bike trail is in the early stages of construction in McCook, and will be an important asset to the community once it is completed.

But streets and sidewalks will always be one of our most important fitness resources.

We owe it to ourselves and our neighbors to make the outdoor exercise experience as safe and enjoyable as possible.