Let’s Move, Mississauga

Get outside and get active!

We all recognize how important it is to be active. Walking and rolling (e.g., traveling by bike, scooter, wheelchair or other mobility device) has many benefits like contributing to safer streets, a greener environment and is a great way to stay healthy and active.

This April, getting outside and getting moving is as easy as walking or rolling (e.g. traveling by bike, scooter, wheelchair or other mobility device) to reach everyday destinations like work, school, the grocery store or the bus stop. Whether you live or work in Mississauga, consider swapping some of these trips that you normally make by car for an active mode, instead!

And remember: no matter what your travel mode, remember to stay safe by following the rules of the road.

Walk or roll to school!

Are you a student or the parent or guardian of school-aged children? Getting active is as easy as walking or rolling to school or your bus stop! If walking or rolling the full way to school isn’t possible, consider taking public transit or driving partway to the school and walking or rolling the rest of the way.

Students learning virtually can also participate by walking or rolling in their neighbourhood, to their local library or in a local park or trail.

 Plus: Check with your school to see if your school is participating in the School Walking Routes program.

The Challenge

Keep track of the number of times you walk or roll during April. Download and print your digital certificate, and share your accomplishment on social media using the hashtag #LetsMoveSauga.

Not sure where to go?

Take advantage of Mississauga’s approximately 500 kilometres of multi-use trails, shared park pathways, bike lanes and signed bike routes. Use the Mississauga Cycling Map to plan your route ahead of time or check out a park. We also have signed school walking routes thanks to the schools participating in the Mississauga School Walking Routes program.

Plan for Success

Before you start walking or rolling, review the tips below for a safe journey.

Students
  • When walking to school or bus stop:
    • Cross at pedestrian crossovers, crosswalks and designated school crossings.
    • At intersections with traffic signals, only cross when there’s a walk signal.
    • Be extra aware in areas with lots of driveways as drivers may be reversing.
    • When walking on shared paths, keep to the right and be aware of people moving faster who may want to pass, like those on scooters or bikes.
  • When cycling to school:
    • Ensure your bike is in safe working order and has a bell, light and reflectors.
    • Wear a helmet! If you’re under the age of 18, it’s legally required for you to wear a helmet when riding your bike – it’s strongly recommended that everyone wear a helmet.
    • Bring a bike lock to secure your bike once you arrive at school.
    • Obey all traffic signals and signs.
    • If you’re passing on the left, give a friendly warning.
    • Plan your route.
    • Slow down around pedestrians and use extra caution when approaching seniors, children and pets.
  • When boarding a bus:
    • Wait for the bus at a safe distance away from the road.
    • Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching.
  • When getting off the bus:
    • Look both directions before crossing the street.
    • Always cross the road in front of the bus, never behind.
    • Do not run across the road.
    • If you are standing too close to the bus, a driver cannot see you. This is known as the “danger zone.” Do your best to stay at least ten steps away from the bus on all sides.
Pedestrians
  • Follow pedestrian signals and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Where possible, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before you proceed.
  • Cross at the pedestrian crossing, crosswalk or intersection when possible.
  • Avoid distractions and focus on what is happening around you while walking and when crossing the street.
  • Don’t begin crossing the street during the flashing “don’t walk” phase. Press the button if there is one, and wait for the next walk signal.
  • Obey crossing guards stationed at designated school crossing.
Cyclists
  • Slow down around pedestrians and use extra caution when approaching older adults, children and pet.
  • Keep to the right, pass others on the left.
  • When approaching another cyclist or pedestrian on a shared pathway or bike lane, use your bell or give a friendly verbal warning before passing. This prevents collisions and startling other trail users.
  • When approaching a sharp turn that obstructs your view, approach slowly, use your bell or give a verbal warning, and proceed when clear to do so.
  • It is strongly recommended that everyone wear a helmet when riding their bike – it is required for those under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.
  • Make sure to stay on the marked trail/pathway.
  • Be sure your bike has a light and reflector as it’s required by law to help you stay visible to drivers and other trail users.
  • Obey all trail signs and traffic signals/signs.
Drivers
  • Look for pedestrians and cyclists, especially when turning left or right. Don’t just look in front of you. Check the entire crosswalk and surrounding sidewalks and multi-use trails for pedestrian and cyclists.
  • Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk or crossride.
  • Visibility decreases when it’s dark. Be extra vigilant at night or early mornings.
  • Use extra caution near transit stops and stations. They are locations of high pedestrian and cyclist activity that require your full attention.
  • Always make a complete stop at a stop sign. Make sure the intersection is clear of pedestrians and other vehicles before proceeding.
  • Distracted driving is dangerous and illegal. Give driving your full attention.
  • Drive within the posted speed limits and follow all traffic signs and signals.
  • Be aware and follow lower speed limits in school zones and in neighbourhoods where children are present and sometimes unpredictable.
  • Always yield the right of way to pedestrians and cyclists who are crossing the road, and pay extra attention while turning.
  • Always look before you back up and check all around your vehicle for pedestrians and cyclists before you go. Check your mirrors and be especially careful in driveways and parking lots.
  • If parking on street, check your mirrors before opening your doors to ensure you don’t hit a cyclist or pedestrian as they pass your vehicle.

Let’s Move, Mississauga is a joint partnership between Mississauga’s Traffic Safety Council and Road Safety Committee. The safety messages included in this campaign are a part of our greater efforts to educate road users to help achieve Vision Zero in Mississauga.