• ‘Wheely’ Great Gifts
• Work-from-Home for the Holidays
• Watch Your Speed
• National Take a Hike Day: November 17

‘Wheely’ Great Gifts

E-Bikes and e-scooters are more than just fun presents, they’re also gifts of good health and clean air. Here are a few things to consider if you’re planning to buy one this holiday season:

• Contra Costa residents are eligible for e-bike rebates of $150, $300, or $500, depending on their home city and income. If you purchase an e-bike, be sure to apply! (Scooters are not eligible for rebates)
• E-bikes and e-scooters are popular. Start shopping early to make sure you have one in time for your celebration.
• Scooters are generally less expensive, more portable, and perfect for shorter trips.
• E-bikes can be a bigger investment but are better for longer distances and offer more versatility: cargo carriers, off-road models, and portable folding options are available.
• Take a test ride, even if the bike or scooter is for someone else.
• Don’t forget the safety gear: helmets, lights, and bells.

Work-from-Home for the Holidays

Many of us have settled into a hybrid work schedule, but the holidays can create temporary challenges for our at-home workdays. Use these tips to keep things running smoothly:

• Find a dedicated, quiet location to get your work done, even if it means moving to a new spot in your home for the season.
• Share your time-off schedule with coworkers so you can unplug when you’re off the clock.
• Let kids and guests know when you’ll be on video calls to avoid interruptions.
• If it’s an option, consider adjusting your daily work schedule to accommodate holiday plans.
• Remember to take breaks, get outside, and move.

Apply for the Drive Less incentive and get $25 for working from home at least one day each week.

Watch Your Speed!

Speeding is a factor in thousands of vehicle crashes in the U.S. every day. Although speeding is 100% preventable, we don’t always realize we’re doing it. We may be lost in conversation, trying to keep our distance from a tailgater, or attempting to make up time after leaving later than expected.

Safety isn’t just about sticking to the speed limit, since safe speeds can change with conditions. When fog, rain, or poor lighting limits your visibility; or when you’re driving in construction zones or neighborhoods where children are present – slow down! Choose to be a mindful driver: leave earlier, remove distractions from your car, and keep an eye on your speedometer.

Vision Zero is a comprehensive transportation planning strategy that seeks to eliminate all fatalities and severe injuries that result from traffic collisions. Learn more about this countywide effort to keep us all safer.

National Take a Hike Day: November 17

National Take a Hike Day on November 17th is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and explore your neighborhood trails. It doesn’t need to be an all-day trek. Even a short stroll on your lunch break, with the sound of leaves under your feet, can help you focus and feel refreshed for the rest of the day. Walking and hiking are great natural mood-boosters and can help you sleep better.

P.S. November 17th also happens to be national Baklava Day, so hike to your local bakery for a treat!