Monday, November 5, 2018

Fall Running Safety

Did you know November is National Running Safety Month?! (Today is also National Doughnut Day, which is almost as important, if you ask my hubby... so why not celebrate them both with a safe run to get doughnuts?! #TwoBirdsOneStone)


Along the same line of thought, seeing as yesterday marked the end of Daylight Savings Time, I thought it's the PERFECT time to share some tips to stay safe in low (or no) light. {FYI - Am I the only person who was excited to see a Prop on the California ballot that could allow us to vote on the silly time change?!} I'm sure you're all well versed in these suggestions, but it never hurts to remind us of easy ways we can try to ensure our safety when we are out at night (or in the wee early morning hours) - whether we are running, biking, walking the dog or just crossing the street.


Acknowledgement

I do my best to not cross in front of vehicles until I know I am being acknowledged. The car may be stopped and you may think they see you, but that is not always the case. (I should know, I was hit by a car a few years ago - thankfully it wasn't serious.) Wait until the driver makes eye contact and somehow acknowledges your presence - whether that's with a wave, a nod, a smile, etc. If they don't acknowledge you, wait until they proceed before entering the intersection.

Bring a Buddy

I'll be honest, I'm definitely a solo runner. I have some speedy friends and worry I'll hold them back if I run with them so I normally opt to run on my own (not to mention, running is normally my "me time", my time with God, with my thoughts, with nature). Even still, I know how important having someone with you to have your back can be - whether it's your significant other, a four legged friend or a running buddy. But, if running with someone else isn't a possibility, I'd urge you to carry your phone, tell someone your running route (but not the whole world... creepers are out there so you need to be smart about sharing info) and when to expect you back. You can consider those people your virtual running buddies!

Carry Your ID

God forbid something tragic were to happen, it is extremely important to have identification on your person so first responders know who you are, how best to treat you and who to contact in case of emergency. One of the easiest ways to do this is to WEAR your ID (I love my Elite ROADiD - I haven't taken it off since I got it in the mail). It's everyday peace of mind. No matter where the road takes you, do more of what you love and worry less with your info on-hand. Also, since I carry my phone with me, I have a wallet case that holds my driver's license and credit cards so I always have it on me.

Run Against Traffic

This is a great rule of thumb no matter the time of day, but it's especially important at dawn, dusk and when it's dark out. Facing traffic allows you to see approaching vehicles (just in case you have to make a mad dash out of harm's way).

Be Aware

Like many of these tips, this is important at all times. We need to be constantly aware of our surroundings - keeping our head on a swivel. I would recommend running without headphones (or, if you must have them, keeping one earbud out) so you can hear what's going on around you. Running in well-lit, high-trafficked areas also allow for added familiarity.

Wear Reflective Gear

With less light, we need to do our part to make sure we are seen. Remember - reflective is different than glow in the dark. Reflective clothing bounces light back to where the light source is located. I have everything from reflective hats and headbands to vests, jackets and skirts. Below are just a few of my favorite pieces I use religiously.


Light Up The Night

Not only is reflective gear a must for me, but lights are a great way to increase your visibility as well! I'm not going to lie, I sort of love going for a run and looking like a Christmas tree - with all the reflective gear and lights that I can throw on. Just like with reflective gear, I definitely have a few favorites that I use all the time and would recommend you check out.

  • Loma Creek Rechargeable Headlamp {I love you can charge this via USB and how bright and wide the light is! The hubby has a very pricey headlamp he received as a gift and this is still the one we always grab.}
  • Nathan Lightbender RX Lighted Armband {You can select the color [red, blue or green] and whether you want a blinking or steady light. And even though I am a big sweater, I've never had issues with it moving or slipping.}
  • Nathan StrobeLight LED Clip {I originally got this for Ragnar and have been using it consistently ever since.}

Although you may read this post as ways to potentially not be hit by a car, there are many other dangers we need to be aware of - whether that's something as trivial as tripping on a pothole or missing a curb to something potentially catastrophic like being abducted, raped or murdered. I wish we didn't have to discuss these situations, but they're unfortunately a reality for runners (especially female runners) in this day and age and we need to be cognizant about them. This world can be a scary, evil place, but it will not prevent me from going out and doing what I love (but you better believe I'll do my darnedest to take whatever precautions I need so I can do it for as long and as safely as possible).

How do you stay safe when the sun goes down?


1 comment:

Allyson said...

I bought this vest today! www.noxgear.com
It was on sale plus free shipping and cost less than Amazon had it.