13 safety tips for road runners
Is one of your new year’s resolutions for 2017 to get fit? The probability is high. However, you also want to save, so joining the gym is not an option for you at this point. The only other option is to take to the road…
Below are the top road runner tips from Arrive Alive to keep you safe on the road:
- Always stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you. The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.
- Think about possible escape routes in case of a confrontation.
- Take notice of who is ahead of you and who is behind you. Know where the nearest public sites are with some general activity – there is usually safety in numbers.
- When in doubt, follow your intuition and avoid potential trouble. If something seems suspicious, do not panic, but run in a different direction.
- Run clear of parked cars, bushes, dark areas.
- Be extra vigilant at junctions with alleyways where traffic may emerge.
- Run across the street at crosswalks and always pay attention to traffic lights.
- Drivers have a bad habit of not looking for pedestrians. Be sure to make eye contact before crossing in front of a car. Never assume you have been seen.
- Be considerate of other road/ pavement users – do not force pedestrians into the road – do not step off the pavement without checking behind – cyclists do not make a noise!
- Be aware of other hazards such as forces of nature, animals etc.
- Use discretion in acknowledging strangers. Look directly at others and be observant, but keep your distance and keep moving.
- Ignore verbal harassment.
- Do not approach a car to give directions, or the time of day. Point toward the nearest police or information source, shrug your shoulders but keep moving. If you feel you must respond, do it while moving.