Warmer weather brings us outdoors. If you’ve been on the treadmill these last few months, we know you’ve been ready to get outdoors. Before you head out, remember these safety tips from Safewise to keep your run safe. Be sure to stop by Fleet Feet for the proper outdoor running and safety gear. Fleet Feet will also be hosting an event with Todd Williams on how to defend yourself if found in a dangerous situation.
1. Tell someone where and when you’re running
If you become injured or worse while on your run, having someone know your intended route and timetable will go a long way toward helping emergency responders reach you. You can use any method you want to keep your safety buddy informed. A simple note on the fridge will do, or you could get techy and use an app like React Mobile or Runkeeper Elite.
2. Dress the part
Nothing says safety like neon. You’re probably fine to run without reflective clothing in the middle of the day, but before dawn and after dusk, you’re going to need all the help you can get to stay visible to cars, bikes, and other vehicles.
3. Be prepared for emergencies
Full pockets can be a pain, but your house key can only do so much to help protect you if you get into trouble on your run. You may also want to bring these items:
Pepper spray or noisemaker
Cell phone pre-dialed to 911
Medical information, including blood type and conditions an EMT should know about
Personal ID
Emergency contact numbers
To carry these items without adding bulk, look into special running clothing or accessories.
4. Get self-defense training
It’s more probable that you’ll be injured by a car than attacked while running, but there’s still a chance. Self-defense training may help you carry yourself more confidently (which has measurable effects on whether a predator perceives you as a victim) and help you stay cool in case something does happen. Runners of below average height, who may be seen as easier targets, should look for self-defense tips and techniques that will help them defend themselves against a larger attacker.
5. Be alert
Headphones can make it difficult for you to hear what’s going on around you, so if you’ve got to listen, try using just one earbud. It’s especially important to be alert near intersections or anywhere you could get hit by stray objects (construction sites, parks, etc.).Talking on the phone can also be a distraction. Weigh the chances of your phone call deterring a suspicious person against the chances of it keeping you from noticing physical hazards.
6. Run with a partner
Bring one running partner, and a potential attacker may be less bold. Bring two, and the attacker may fade into the shadows completely. If you can’t find a running partner, take your dog along.
7. Vary your running routine
Randomizing your running route can make you a less vulnerable target. If switching up times isn’t an option, take different routes each day.
8. Practice street smarts
Don’t feel pressured to engage, either verbally or nonverbally, with anyone you don’t want to, and make sure you have a plan for how to adjust your route if you feel threatened at any point on your run. You can also increase your street smarts by learning to quickly memorize information like faces and license plate numbers (try Lumosity or Memrise). Report any suspicious behavior to the police right away.
9. Share the road, pedestrian-style
Pedestrians have the right of way almost without exception, but you should still exercise caution. You can do a lot to help drivers notice and behave more safely around runners:
Use an LED head lamp and run facing traffic
Use bikers’ hand signals to show when/where you’re turning
Look both ways before you cross a street
Use crosswalks instead of jaywalking
Always, always yield when your safety is at stake, even if you have the right of way
10. Follow up
Don’t let your faithful buddy worry—let them know when you get home safely. Establishing a pattern will make it easier for both of you to act quickly in case of an emergency.
11. Review and reevaluate
If you really got in the zone and weren’t paying attention on your run, mentally retrace your steps and investigate any subconscious red flags. Then make a plan to help yourself avoid those problems on your next run.Running safely is totally doable if you prepare beforehand, stay present during, and follow up afterward.
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