Each year, thousands of residents take advantage of the more than 43 miles of paved hike/bike trails currently located throughout Flower Mound. To help keep residents safe and aware, the Flower Mound Police Department would like to offer these tips:

• Tell friends or family the route you will be taking and go with someone else when possible.

• Avoid unfamiliar areas when on the trails alone.

• Stay alert, be observant about your surroundings, and avoid areas where visibility is poor.

• Do not wear headsets. Being able to hear will allow you to sense someone that you may not be able to see such as a passing cyclist.

• Walk confidently.

• Wear shoes and clothing that allows freedom of movement.

• Take a cell phone along and consider carrying mace or pepper spray.

• Wear reflective material and carry a whistle or noisemaker.

• Know the location of open businesses and roadways along your route.

• Take your dog if you have no one to run with and your dog is appropriate to run with.

• Take alternate routes. This helps you to stay alert and make it more difficult for others to learn your routine.

• Make sure you properly hydrate yourself before, during and after a walk or run.

• Lock your vehicle and do not leave valuables such as purses, wallets or cell phones in view.

• Carry identification (including name, phone number and pertinent medical information).