Heading out for a run should always be one of the highlights of your day. It releases endorphins and other “feel good” neurotransmitters in your brain. Sometimes these chemicals may have you on a “runner’s high” and you may, for a moment become distracted from the real life going on around you. In these instances, it becomes most important that you have taken some simple steps to ensure your own safety while you run.
According to a new study by https://wearsafe.com/, almost 35% of all people who run say they feel somewhat unsafe when they go out for a run. This statistic more than doubles for women at well over 75%. During the winter months, almost 60% of runner’s surveyed say they often pivot to indoor activities to avoid running outside. Besides dealing with the cold weather and icy conditions, runners cite shorter daylight and less populated streets, parks, and roads as reasons to stay indoors. According to studies done by a major accident law firm, an average of over 120,000 people are hit by cars while running in the United States, annually.
Although choosing to remain indoors during serious inclement weather, environmental dangers, or local emergencies is smart, nothing replaces the joys of running outside. Avoiding treadmill limitations, crowded spaces, or the monotonous circling of a track when on a long run can improve the experience. There are some key steps and precautions all runners can take to ensure their safety when logging miles. We have assembled a list of safety assurances for you to consider. Don’t Run Alone: The first and best safety precaution that any runner can ever take is simple, avoiding solo running. The vast majority of runners surveyed during safety studies stated that they always feel safer when running with a partner or in a group. Running is social for many reasons, the least of which is not security. The old saying “there is strength is numbers” is true, especially when out for a run. Statistically, physical attacks, harassment, and other serious crimes are almost 80% less likely to happen when there is more than one person, according to a recent study by national law enforcement agencies. Besides the fact that having at least one running partner can deter people looking to cause harm, it is good to run with others in case of medical emergency or accident purposes.
Here is our list of important safety considerations for all runners: • Smart Routes: Always plan your running routes in advance and make sure that someone at home or a friend (not the person running with you) knows where you are headed, just in case they need to look for you. This is also helpful in the unfortunate case of an injury where you need to be picked up. Choose roads with sidewalks, wide shoulders, or safety dividers and traffic barriers. The best running routes don’t share the road with vehicles. • Identification: Carry ID. Almost all modern running gear have pockets, zippers, or inserts to slide in an ID card. Some people take this to the next level with an ID or Medical band with your name and emergency contact. • No Headphones: When running in a desolate, unfamiliar, or dark area, avoid wearing headphones for many reasons. First, you cannot hear oncoming traffic, emergency or work vehicles or equipment, dogs, or people approaching. There are several companies that make safety headphone-like gear that does not fit in your ears, rather work on a sound vibration wavelength. This allows you to listen to music or make calls while keeping your ears free for safety. My favorite is Shokz.com. • Carry a Cell Phone: This one may be a reach for many old school running enthusiasts that cringe at the thought of running with anything but the shirt on their back and shoes (hopefully shorts too), and maybe a watch. For those who do not opt into the running fanny pack, water vest, cool shades, running hats, gel packs, and more…..running with a phone may feel like a hinderance. As I begin to get older, I am learning the value of running with a phone. There are a ton of great running waist bands or belts that stay close to the body and can hold a phone. The added value can be the feeling of not being stranded, having your Applypay on deck in case of emergency need, and having the safety lifeline, if ever needed. This is especially useful if you share your location with a friend or loved one who knows you are going for a run. • Follow the Rules: This is a wide open suggestion, incorporating obeying traffic lights, crossing at marked intersections, respecting traffic flow, yielding to bikes and other vehicles, staying on paths and sidewalks, avoid vehicle only lanes, and pausing at stop signs and merges. Keep in mind the most of today’s electric cars and bikes make very little sound and therefor you may be unaware of their proximity. • Be Aware: It is important to remain aware of your surroundings. Always take a quick look around when changing environments (entering a park, turning corners, crossing streets, entering tunnels or crossing bridges, passing driveways, businesses, or garages which may produce traffic. • Run in Daylight: Whenever possible, run between sunrise and sunset. This may prove to be a challenge during the winter months or in extreme weather environments. If you have the option, run in daylight. This reduces many risks and can be the main reason for feeling safe. If you must run at night, it is recommended that you wear reflective clothing, bright colors, and/or a safety light. Numerous companies sell inexpensive lights that clip onto your clothing or strap onto your person. Rechargeable lights are recommended. • Vary Routes and Times: If you have any reason to fear the harmful actions of someone watching you, it is highly recommended to vary not only your running route but the times and days you run. This sounds like extreme steps, but is recommended for young runners or those who often run alone in low populated areas.
• Use Common Sense: o Avoid construction zones o Make sure traffic can see you o Don’t surge out onto roadways or around corners o Don’t try to cross major roadways where crosswalks don’t exist o Pause and look around when you hear first responder sirens o Avoid running in thunderstorms and other inclement weather o Always know the location of the closest public space, business, or place where other people will be available to offer help in case of an emergency Running is an outdoor and untamed activity. Sometimes, you feel compelled to run free and take the opportunity to connect with your environment. With this, there are many steps that you can take to reduce risks and ensure that you end your journey back at your doorsteps. All runners should educate themselves about ways to remain safe during runs, so they can keep going for many years.
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