Safety Tips for Night Walkers

Check out Bayshore Boulevard at the tail end of the day.

Or the the Riverwalk on the weekend.

Curtis Hixon has them all the time, as do the quiet streets of Hyde Park.

It’s walkers. South Tampa is full of folks who fitness walk. Tons of ‘em.

There’s still joggers and runners, but walkers seem to abound in this town.

And with the summer heat making even the mornings unpleasant, folks are taking to the streets after work, at dusk, even after dark.

Fitness-savy walkers and runners can get so engrossed in their workout they may forget about their surroundings – that there are vehicles around them on the roads, and that there are people who could cause them harm.

While walking, running or just relaxing, be aware of your surroundings to avoid being a victim of a crime or an accident.

Sometimes runners and walkers get lulled into a zone, and they lose track of what’s going on around them. This state makes people vulnerable to traffic and attacks. Walk and run with a purpose

Here’s a list of safety tips for the walking set:

• Plan your walk/run. Always tell a relative or friend where you going, the route you are traveling.
• Carry identification, such as a driver’s license.
• Try to do activities with a partner or pet.
• Exercise in familiar areas.
• Vary your route – attackers won’t be able to learn your routine.
• Avoid unpopulated areas.
• Make yourself visible to those behind the wheel. Be seen and be safe
• Wear bright clothing and reflective materials, especially after dark.
• Carry a small flashlight when walking at night.
• Keep alert – dusk causes shadows that can hide would-be attackers.
• Cross streets in well-lit areas at night.
• Be careful at crossings.
• Look across all lanes of traffic before crossing.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Avoid dangerous behaviors. Trust your instincts and be smart.
• Walk on the sidewalk, or walk facing traffic.
• Make eye contact with drivers – don’t just watch the vehicle.
• If a driver pulls to the curb to ask a question, keep a fair distance away.
• If you’re being followed go to the closest residence or business.
• Carry a whistle to ward off potential attackers.
• Keep valuables at home.
• When approaching your home, have your key ready so you can get inside without delay.

“Be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts,” said Capt. Lonnie Benniefield, of Tampa Fire Rescue.

“People get uncomfortable or embarrassed when they see someone (coming toward them),” Benniefield said. “Look people in the eye.”

“And bring a light with you.”

Some of these tips may seem obvious, but it's always good to review your habits and your environment. Routine can often cause a false sense of security. And when you're out logging the miles, the last thing you want to deal with is trouble.