SAFETY for RUNNERS
Since there is safety in numbers, don't run alone. Find a partner to run with. If not, run where there are people, like at a park or a high school track.
Whenever possible run during daylight hours. If you must runa t night, wear light-reflecting or light colored clothing. Avoid deserted areas.
Be thoroughly familiar with the route you run. Let someone know where you are going.
Avoid poorly lit or areaas adjacent to thick foliage. Be alert to blind corners and when crossing intersections.
Along these same lines, if you run on a main thoroghfare (facing traffic), be wary of vehicles making right-hand turns from side streets. Odds are the driver will never look right if they are making a right-hand turn. They are concentrating on the oncoming traffic from the left and will never see you.
Run relaxed and confident. Be aware of your environment As you run, occasionally look back over your shoulder. Watch for kids, bicycles, pedestrians, etc.
Carry a whistle or alarm device in the event of an emergency. If you are going to carry pepper spray, make sure you know how to use it and don't be afraid to use it.
As previously mentioned, run facing traffic. Do not expect a car to move for you, move first.
Don't wear a lot of jewelry.
Do not acknowledge or respond to verbal harassments.
Avoid wearing headphones. As mentioned earlier....be aware of your environment.
Always carry personal identification with you as well as a small amount of money.
If confronted by a dog,stop and be non-threatening. If you run, the dog will chase you. Pepper spray is a good defense against dog attacks.
Don't run the same route nor should you run at the same time everyday. Mix it up!!