Common sense and precautions are required when you run outdoors. You need to be extra careful on the road to ensure you do not get injured, or become a victim. This article will give you useful pointers on how to stay safe while running outdoors.
Use Common Sense
Before you start your run, check a few things for safety. Ensure your shoe laces are tied. Make sure your running route is familiar. Inform your family or friends about your running route. On the street, run against the traffic, so that you can see the vehicles coming at you. Look out for bumps or cracks in the pavement, or branches and rocks in the way.
Wear Bright Clothes
Ensure you are visible to drivers on the road. So, wear bright-colored or white clothes. If you are running in fading light, such as at dusk or dawn, put on reflective gear. Buy running shoes and jackets that have reflective pieces. Wear a reflective vest over your clothing to be visible to drivers.
Run with a Friend at Night
Night running should not be done alone. There is safety in numbers. So, join a running group or ask a friend to run with you at night.
Carry Identification
Carry some identification while running on the road. Ensure your medical insurance card and driver’s license are in your wallet. Also, carry a card with an emergency contact number. You can wear a running belt to carry your cell phone and identity cards.
Do not Wear Earphones
Listening to music is not recommended while running on the road. You earphones would cut off the sounds of car horns, yelling cyclists, unleashed dogs and other threats. So, use your ipod during treadmill running. On the road, do not lose concentration. Focus on the surroundings to ensure you do not wander into a dangerous locality.
Be Careful at Street Crossings
Don’t assume you have right of way on the road, especially at street crossings. Make eye contact with vehicle drivers before you cross the street. For extra safety, do not run on the road. Stick to running on sidewalks, or in parks.
