Saturday, March 5, 2011

Are You A Safe Runner?

It's a simple question, with a not so simple answer.  Are you a safe runner? 

Do you run alone?  There are many reasons that we should try to find someone to run with when going out on a run.  Of course there is always the story on the news of a runner gone missing.  If you run with a "buddy system" it is more likely that the "bad people" will move past you and on to next, because having someone with you already gave you the upper hand!  But that isn't the only reason to have a partner when running.  If you would fall or twist an ankle, who would help if you are alone?  And it's nice to have someone else helping you finish your goal when your body really doesn't want to!

Do you have some kind of identification?  You don't know what is going to happen once you sit out on your run.  Be prepared and have a Road ID bracelet or shoe tag.  This can be a very valuable tool if you are unable to communicate.  My husband has one that list my name and cell phone number and also list his aortic stenosis diagnosis.  This is information that can save his life if he is unable to talk to paramedics, and ensures that they are able to contact me even when we are out of town.  Even if you don't have a Road ID any kind of identification is helpful.  Maybe you can use your belt to hold your ID and/or cell phone.

What about your running equipment?  Make sure you are visible! Are you wearing something reflective if you are running in the early morning or late evening?  I have even taken the extra step of getting a small light that Paul wears around his waist if he is running when it is dark outside.  Bright colors also help to make you more noticeable. Have you made sure that your shoe laces are tied securely?  Make sure that you have water if you are on a long run.  Don't just plan on being able to get some along the way, have it with you.  They make great belts and back packs for this reason.

Know your course.  This one should be a given, but it is often not thought of.  If you are going to be running a new training course, map it out first.  Make sure that you aren't going to get lost or end up in an area that may not be as safe as where you started.  Does the course that you have mapped out have sidewalks?  Is there plenty of room to run along the side of the road if there aren't sidewalks?  Be sure to watch for dips and cracks in the pavement or sidewalks along new areas that you aren't familiar with.  Does someone know you are running and where?  It's good to let someone know where you will be running and around when you expect to return. 

Don't get distracted!  I know this one is easier said than done, but it's important.  Pay attention at all times.  Now almost everyone you see is running with headphones, that's fine, just turn them down so you can still hear.  You want to be able to hear the warning horn, before it runs you over.  I am sure you would like to hear the barking dog coming up behind you, before he bites you in the tail.  But it is more than just sound, keep your eyes open.  Watch for stray dogs that are running around without a leash.  Keep an eye on the cars around you.  Many people are txting and calling when driving today, it only takes one second of distraction for them to mess up.  Be ready!  Double check at all road crossings!  Don't assume that they are going to let you go, wait for a hand wave or head nod before crossing an intersection.  The couple of seconds you had to stop will be worth not getting hit.

Any other ideas for safety?  Please post a comment if you have a safety point that you would like to share. 
BE SAFE RUNNERS!!!

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