Safety Tips for Runners

Running for health and fitness is great. Even more so if you’re taking the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe when you head outside to run. Whether you’re taking the running path at the park, doing laps in the neighborhood, or braving the city streets on foot, safety should always be priority one for runners. Choose safe neighborhoods to run in. For those who run longer distances, being farther away from home means you want to map out the route.

Choose familiar, safe neighborhoods where you won’t have to worry about a crime element. Heavy traffic and crowds increase the likelihood of an accident happening. Pick an area where you’ll pass by a few people, but not too many. This way, you’ll have space to run in and if something should go wrong, you’ll be able to summon help quickly.

Try to run in daylight hours, especially if you’re female. Yes, a night run can

be enticing, in the quiet, lamp-lit streets. But it’s always a little safer in the daytime.

If you do happen to run at night, take precautions. Keep your phone on you in case of emergency. Some women carry a little vial of pepper spray just to be safe. Hopefully, you’ll never need it.

Don’t overexert. If you feel lightheaded or lose your breath while running, don’t over-exert. Give yourself a few moments to catch your breath while walking, then resume your former pace. Even if you have to start and stop six, eight or 12 times, it’s better than pushing yourself to a dangerous point.

Keep your keys close at hand and save the longdistance jaunts for the daylight hours. If for any reason you need to return to your car quickly, get in it and drive away, you’ll be able to do that.

Bundle up, or peel away layers - depending on what the weather is up to. You can stash your extra clothing in the car, to wear or remove as needed.

Stay hydrated. If you’re hot, running a long distance, or feel thirsty before, during or after your outdoor run, water is very important.