9 Running Safety Rules

No matter where you run, you’re going to run into trouble if you don’t follow a few basic safety rules. Mind you, running isn’t like rock climbing, where one false step can put an end to your career. As a runner, most of your safety concerns have to do with watching out for others. Unfortunately, daydreaming drivers and preying pouncers are part of our world.
Try to follow these basic personal safety guidelines for runners at all times:

1. Always run facing traffic. When you’re on roads, run defensively; assume that no driver sees you.
2. Try to run with others. If you run alone, try to run where others are, such as parks, neighborhoods, or tracks.
3. When you leave to run, tell someone where you’ll be running and how long you plan to be out.
4. Don’t run the same route at the same time every day. Doing so makes it easier for someone to plan an attack.
5. Know where phones, friendly homes, and open businesses are along your routes in case of an emergency.
6. If you’re verbally harassed, ignore it. Responding usually just spurs the sickos on.
7. Be extra alert near thick bushes and other places where attackers can hide.
8. If you’re set upon by a dog, stop. If it persists, yell at it firmly. It will usually run away. Don’t count on being able to outrun it.
9. If you’re set upon by an unarmed human, create as much of a commotion as possible, and try to escape.

If the assailant is armed, don’t resist, but try to get a good description to give to the police.
I know this sounds like a lot to keep in mind. And it sure seems as though always being concerned about safety will take a lot of the fun out of running. But there are some strange people out there. Being on guard for them is better than letting them really ruin your running by having their way.