Tips for staying safe when running...
1. Always let someone know you are going out for a run and a rough route.
2. Try and avoid running on your own, especially at night - run with a buddy!
3. Make sure you are visible: wear bright colour running gear.
4. Avoid distractions: I know it is hard to run without music but listening to music makes you less aware of your surroundings. Run without headphones. If you must have them, put just one headphone in your ear and leave the other one out. This will make you more aware of cyclists, cars, unleashed dogs and any other potential threat.
5. Always have identification on you – use a running belt so you can carry your drivers licence or have your phone on you and have a contact saved as incase of an emergency.
6. Carry cash on you in case of an emergency. You never know when you might need it. You may get injured and need to get a cab or bus home. The weather could turn bad or you may need to buy water or food on your run.
7. Always trust your instincts- if a location or person makes you feel uneasy trust your gut and run in the other direction.
8. If possible carry a personal alarm and get trained in self defence, even the basics may help you out one day.
9. Avoid running alone in unfamiliar areas and stay away from paths surrounded by heavy shrubbery/trees.
10. Change your route that you do occasionally, incase someone is watching you.
Enjoy your running as usual but just be aware and use common sense!!!! Happy Running :-)
