Want to run on the roads? Well here are some tips to keep YOU safe when you are out.
Want to run on the roads? Well here are some tips to keep YOU safe when you are out.
Don’t go with the flow
Run in the opposite direction of traffic.
Carry cash
Stick money or a credit card into your pocket or shoe. You might need a Gatorade or cab fare.
Drivers think they own the road
Assume every driver is talking on their phone while drinking steaming hot coffee and tuning the radio. Stay as clear of cars as you can. Run on a sidewalk or bike path whenever possible.
Say ‘hey’ before you take off
Let someone know where you are going and what time you plan on returning.
Wear shiny clothes if you are out in the dark
If you’re running in the dark wear a headlamp, carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing.
Not everyone has the keenest sense of direction
Have an idea of your route before you set out. There is nothing worse than getting eight miles out from your car when it’s starting to get dark and you realize you have no idea how to get back. At that point hopefully you have some phone numbers memorized.
Don’t fear the crowds
Run in populated areas. If there are other runners around there is good chance that the area is safe and a good place to run.
Listen up
If you run wearing headphones, turn down the music so that you can still hear what is going on around you or only wear your headphones in one ear.
Power in numbers
Run with a friend. If you don’t have runner friends or a dog ask a friend to bike along you while you run.
Switch up your run
Change up your running route and time you run every so often. Getting acquainted with the same route over and over again make you susceptible to letting your guard down and lets assailants know when and were you are.
Look both ways before you cross the street
Crossing streets, especially those regulated by stop signs are the worst for runners. Drivers will pull out in front of the stop sign looking for cars, but often will look right beyond runners. Unless you make eye contact with the driver assume they haven’t seen you and stay on the curb.
