Use your ears to be aware of your surroundings. Your ears may help you avoid dangers your eyes may miss during evening or early morning runs. Always stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you. The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.
Run against traffic so you can observe approaching automobiles. By facing on-coming traffic, you may be able to react quicker than if it is behind you.
When running up or down hills stay as far to the side as possible, Vehicles approaching may not be able to react quickly if you are in the road.
Look both ways before crossing. Be sure the driver of a car acknowledges your right-of-way before crossing in front of a vehicle. Obey traffic signals.
Carry identification and include any medical information.
Trust your intuition about a person or an area. React on your intuition and avoid a person or situation if you’re unsure. If something tells you a situation is not “right”, it isn’t.
Carry a cell phone with you if you are running in an unfamiliar area or by yourself.
Alter or vary your running route pattern; run in familiar areas if possible. In unfamiliar areas, such as while traveling, contact a local club or running store. Know where open businesses or stores are located in case of emergency.
Run with a partner. Run with a dog. Run with a mountain lion.
Write down or leave word of the direction of your run. Tell friends and family of your favorite running routes.
Avoid unpopulated areas, deserted streets, and overgrown trails. Avoid unlit areas, especially at night. Run clear of parked cars or bushes.
Ignore verbal harassment and do not verbally harass others. Use discretion in acknowledging strangers. Look directly at others and be observant, but keep your distance and keep moving.
If running in the dark, reflective gear and safety lights should be worn. Lights that illuminate the road in front of you will help to avoid injury with pot holes or other obstacles.
Practice memorizing license tags or identifying characteristics of strangers.
Carry a whistle or other noisemaker. Get training in self-defense. Carry a can of Pepper spray.
When using multi-use trails, follow the rules of the road. If you alter your direction, look over your shoulder before crossing the trail to avoid a potential collision with an oncoming cyclist or passing runner.
CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY if something happens to you or someone else, or you notice anyone out of the ordinary. It is important to report incidents immediately.