Running on my favorite daytime trail is not an option this
time of year. No problem, I will get up earlier and run
in the dark, or perhaps I will run when I get home. Well,
that’s not much better as it will be dark then, too!
I can hear motorists now, thinking “what the heck
is that crazy, flat bellied runner doing out there? He must
be nuts! Is he trying to get himself killed?! I never liked
runners anyway. They deserve to get run over, especially
if I can’t see them!”
Well, maybe they don’t think this way, but what if
they do? Your t-shirt isn’t going to provide much
protection against a car. Are you prepared? Well, are you?
Here is something else to think about…can you see
where you are going? Here are some things to think about
to lessen your chances of becoming a deer in the headlights!
• Run against traffic. It’s easier to avoid
traffic if you can see it and drivers can see you.
• Don’t wear dark colors at night. Light colored
running clothes, “Night Life” garments, reflective
clothing and hats with reflective tape and flashing lights
improve your chances dramatically of being seen.
• Run behind vehicles at intersections. You may think
the driver of the stopped vehicle has seen you, but he or
she is probably worn out from a hard day at the office and
are in rush to get home to prepare dinner. It’s best
to run behind the vehicle and eliminate this risk altogether.
• Don’t wear headphones. Give yourself the
ability to hear traffic approaching from behind. This should
give you enough time to move out of their way.
• Wear a billed running cap. The bill of the cap
may hit an unseen branch instead of your face or eyes.
• Vary your routes. Potential attackers usually know
who they are after and lie in wait for them. Don’t
allow them to time your runs.
• Run with a partner. Attackers are usually cowards;
if you run with a partner you put the odds in your favor.
Pepper spray is also a good defense.
• Make eye contact and acknowledge drivers. This
interaction, though brief, could save your life.
• Light yourself up like a Christmas tree. Use headlamps.
Flashing safety lights that attach to your clothes, reflective
gloves, hats, shorts and shirts.
• Always let someone know where you are running,
and when they should expect you to return.
• Take along your cell phone in case you have an
emergency. You can easily place it in an arm wallet.
• Don’t forget your running I.D. Make sure
to have your personal information inside as well as any
medical information emergency personnel might need.
Well, how did you do? Hopefully you are not scared of the
dark and are ready for your next run. If not, come by “Run
Fit Sports” and let us equip you for your next run
in the dark!
Miles of Smiles
Bill Brown Owner
Run Fit Sports
678 364 9200
