Here's what you're missing when you're looking at your phone [video]

You miss a lot of life looking at your phone-and could put your life in danger.

That's the message in a new video from SAIF, highlighting the dangers of distracted walking: https://youtu.be/CIYRfy6wqQg.

“We've heard a lot about distracted driving, but cell phones can pose a big distraction for pedestrians, too,” said Matt Krell, safety and health services manager at SAIF. “We urge you to put away your cell phone when walking—and ideally, that includes your headphones.”

While distracted walking can be risky, Krell still recommends getting your steps in throughout the day-physical activity helps employees stay alert and engaged, leading to fewer injuries. When taking your wellness break, Krell offers the following safe walking precautions:

• Never text or talk on the phone while walking-and not just on the road. (More than half of distracted walking injuries happen at home.) Remove headphones.
• Walk on the sidewalk if possible. If you must walk on the street, face oncoming traffic.
• Look left, right, then left again before crossing the street. Use designated crosswalks.
• Make eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you. Never rely on a car to stop.
• Wear bright and/or reflective clothing.
• Walk in groups whenever possible. You're more likely to be seen-and less likely to be on your phone.

“As it's getting darker earlier, it's especially important to be aware of your surroundings and to make sure you're visible to everyone else on the road,” says Krell. “These are also great tips to share with your kids—whether they walk to school or are trick-or-treating later this month.”

More information about safe walking, and other ways to get active, can be found at saif.com/pedestriansafety.

SAIF also recommends employers talk with their employees about not answering work calls on the road-more information on distracted driving can be found at saif.com/distracteddriving.

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. Since 1914, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.