Runners World Article

Safety Guidelines That Every Runner Should Know

With the world being so health conscious of late, more and more people are tuning in to the many benefits to be gained from running. For your own safety, there are some precautions that you should take, just in case you encounter someone who doesn’t have noble intentions on your run. This is especially important if you usually run alone, as you could be even more of a potential target.

One of the best things that you can do is let someone know that you are going running, and where you plan to go. This way, if you aren’t back within a reasonable amount of time, they can come look for you. Take your dog with you if your have one, as he will enjoy the exercise, and may discourage unwanted company.

Don’t carry a lot of unnecessary items with you when you run. Don’t take your wallet, and leave any jewelry at home. If you prefer to listen to music while you run, you should use an inexpensive radio, something that no one would be likely to want. If you carry your cell phone with you, stick it in your pocket out of sight, and keep it on vibrate, so it doesn’t attract attention to you when it rings.

Try not to get into a routine. For example, don’t run at the same time, at the same place everyday. This will make it much harder for someone to plan an attack, as they won’t know your schedule or where you will be. Not to make your paranoid, but many attacks and robberies are planned well ahead of time, using the victim’s routine to know when to strike.

Don’t be tempted to walk in isolated, private spots. Opt instead for large public places that are open in every direction. You never know who may be lying in wait at the end of an alley or behind a dumpster, so it is best to avoid those and similar areas altogether.

If you run when it is dark outside, make certain you only go in areas that have plenty of light and people around. Stay away from deserted parking lots, dark sidewalks, etc. Someone is much less likely to harm you if there are witnesses around to see.

If you run on the road, you should run facing the oncoming traffic, rather than with it. By facing traffic, you can see what is coming for you, and act appropriately.

When you run, always keep an eye out for what is around you. If you spot anyone who seems suspicious, then you are better off to cancel your run for the day, and go home, or better yet, to a public place, such as a grocery store or mall. If you do listen to music while you run, don’t have the volume up so loud that you can’t hear the sounds around you.

While you may never be the victim of a violent crime, and may feel that you live in an area where crime ever occurs, you still can’t go wrong by learning and practicing some preventative measures.