Easy Ways to Stay Safe On Your Run
Dec 09, 2015
When you head out for your next run or walk, please keep in mind some easy things you can do to stay safe out there. It amazes me how many people I see out on the road, making simple mistakes that could cost them dearly. Staying safe on your run is easy. Here are some simple things you can do to protect yourself.
Use ONE ear bud, not two! If you are going to listen to something other than the sounds of nature, only wear one earbud. If you wear both, you are depriving yourself of an
invaluable sense. Being able to hear what is going on around you will help you stay safe. If you will stick to wearing one ear bud, you'll be able to listen to your music or book and still hear what is happening around you.
Wear BRIGHT and/or reflective colors! There's a reason why many runners clothes are bright. It's to keep runners visible to others and, therefore, safe! Give drivers every chance to see you. There are many distractions out there and any attention you can call to yourself so that drivers can see you will improve the chance that they will see you and give you the room that you need.
Run on the LEFT side of the road! Never, ever run with your back to traffic, where you cannot see what is coming towards you. If you run long enough, you WILL have to jump out of the way of oncoming traffic - it just happens. If you are running with your back to traffic, you don't have that option. In order to stay safe, we must run defensively and take the responsibility of making ourselves seen and able to alter our course, if necessary. The car always wins.
Run on the right side of a trail, because you are the traffic! As other runners and cyclists approach and pass, this helps keep everyone safe. Good trail etiquette helps everyone!
Be aware of your surroundings and behave accordingly. If something doesn't seem right while you're out on a run, pay attention to your gut and revise your route.
Carry your cell phone. It is too easy to have your phone with you and is a potential lifeline, if needed. You can use an app like Road Id that will keep track of you and let someone follow you as you are out on a run.
The point is to be proactive. Think ahead and take care of yourself.
Run safely!
