How to Run Alone Safely
In most communities, there's no need to stay home if you don't have a running partner to join you on your favorite 5-miler. You should, however, play it safe and smart when heading out solo. Here are some safety tips.
Instructions
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Let someone else know where you're going and when you'll be back.
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Carry a nametag or ID with you. RoadID.com (see Resources below) makes ID bands that attach easily to your shoelaces. Or put a business card in the small key pocket of your shorts.
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Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches.
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Carry a whistle and/or pepper spray. Keep them handy-not shoved in the tiny pocket of your shorts. If you carry pepper spray, test it periodically before leaving home.
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If it's dark outside, wear light-colored or reflective clothing. The goal is to stay visible to cars and other hazards.
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Run against traffic so you can easily see and avoid cars and bicycles.
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Stay in well-lit, populated areas. Avoid heavily wooded trails, tunnels or any place where an attacker could easily hide. If your neighborhood streets are not a safe option and there isn't a safe running trail nearby, find a high school track that welcomes community runners.
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Leave your headphones at home. This one might be tricky-after all, you don't have anyone else to keep you company-but headphones limit you from hearing cars, stray dogs and creepy strangers.
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Make eye contact with everyone and either wave or say hello.
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If you are running in the dark, buy a small LED light that attaches to your waistband, shirt or wrist so that people and cars see you coming. You can also wear a small headlamp, but these can be very annoying and blinding to oncoming runners, so use judiciously.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are still worried about running alone and don't have readily available running partners, consider joining a gym and using a treadmill.
Resources
- Photo Credit Photos.com
