Personal Safety
We must all take responsibility for our own safety when we go running and most of this is just plain common sense. Here are some ideas worth considering:
Do tell someone where you are going and how long you will be. That way you will be missed if you don't return as planned and they'll know where to start looking.
Carry a mobile phone, money or a card for a pay phone. If disaster strikes, you can get help more quickly.
Don't wear headphones. You won't hear what's going on around you. These days it's common to share paths with cyclists who may approach you quietly from behind. Worse still it could be a would-be assailant.
During the day time wear light or fluorescent clothing so that other road users can see you.
At night wear reflective clothing or at least clothing that has reflective stripes incorporated. Headlights can make out reflective clothing up to 3 times further away than non-reflective materials.
Run facing traffic if there is no pavement. If you're approaching a blind corner, cross over to the other side when it is safe to do so. Cars will then be able to see you more clearly.
Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if your route takes you through a lonely spot. Better still, avoid such places. Always take note of what or who is around you. If someone appears suspicious be on your guard. You may have misjudged the situation but it is better to be safe than sorry. Work out the best escape route just in case.
Vary your route and the times you run. It's probably stating the obvious but if you always run the same route at the same time, it could be noticed and this could make you more vulnerable.
Wear a personal alarm. If needed you will certainly attract attention to yourself and they act as a good dog deterrent!
Don't wear expensive looking jewellery. There is no point attracting attention.
Carry a card with your contact and emergency contact details. In case of an accident, you will be identified and your friends or family notified.
Best still run with friends and try to arrange it so no-one is left to walk to their car or run home alone.
Do tell someone where you are going and how long you will be. That way you will be missed if you don't return as planned and they'll know where to start looking.
Carry a mobile phone, money or a card for a pay phone. If disaster strikes, you can get help more quickly.
Don't wear headphones. You won't hear what's going on around you. These days it's common to share paths with cyclists who may approach you quietly from behind. Worse still it could be a would-be assailant.
During the day time wear light or fluorescent clothing so that other road users can see you.
At night wear reflective clothing or at least clothing that has reflective stripes incorporated. Headlights can make out reflective clothing up to 3 times further away than non-reflective materials.
Run facing traffic if there is no pavement. If you're approaching a blind corner, cross over to the other side when it is safe to do so. Cars will then be able to see you more clearly.
Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if your route takes you through a lonely spot. Better still, avoid such places. Always take note of what or who is around you. If someone appears suspicious be on your guard. You may have misjudged the situation but it is better to be safe than sorry. Work out the best escape route just in case.
Vary your route and the times you run. It's probably stating the obvious but if you always run the same route at the same time, it could be noticed and this could make you more vulnerable.
Wear a personal alarm. If needed you will certainly attract attention to yourself and they act as a good dog deterrent!
Don't wear expensive looking jewellery. There is no point attracting attention.
Carry a card with your contact and emergency contact details. In case of an accident, you will be identified and your friends or family notified.
Best still run with friends and try to arrange it so no-one is left to walk to their car or run home alone.