Safety Tips for Walkers and Runners

When it comes to running and walking, most people give little thought to safety. We might pick our routes based on the scenery, the footing or the vicinity to our homes, but we don’t prepare ourselves for the dangers of being out on the roads in the same way we do when we head out on a bike.

I do not have a single cycling friend who would head out the door in the predawn hours without a safety light and bright clothing. Yet, every evening as I head into my neighborhood I have learned to slow down to a crawl because of all of the runners and walkers who take to the street in their black outfits.

As a runner I am keenly aware of routines. I understand that most runners and walkers exercise before or after work. But not everybody has this awareness. Most drivers are thinking about the next thing they have to do, their next destination or even what’s for dinner. And while it is important for drivers to beware of the obstacles on the road, it isn’t their sole responsibility. We as fit adults need to consider our safety, as well.

Over the years I have created my own set of safety rules to live by.

1. Always walk facing traffic. This is something that confuses many people because cycling is the opposite. But yes, we need to face oncoming traffic so that we might step out of the way if we see someone driving erratically. It gives us the opportunity to take defensive actio.
2. Be seen. I cannot stress this enough. Every time I see a walker or runner wearing all black after dark, I am amazed, not just that they didn’t think to wear something reflective, but at just how difficult it is to see them. Reflective gear is no longer the geeky orange vest your mom used to make you wear. Charm City Run has a whole line of clothing that is both reflective and attractive.
3. Pick your route. Is it safe? Is there some time of day that is safer than others? I am not a morning or night runner, but often find myself running during the middle of the day. I avoid running on the roads by the high school during that time because of all of the teenage drivers heading home for the afternoon. There are many considerations we can take when planning our routes. Would it be possible to drive five minutes down the road to a park or trail? If not, is there another neighborhood close to home that has less traffic? Even the angle of the sun can make that little bit of a difference in a safe run.  Taking a few minutes to think about where we are heading can make all the difference.
4. Walking/Running partners.  I am sure my friends think I sound like a broken record, but having a partner is a great idea. They not only hold you accountable for getting your workout in and make running or walking more fun, they are also a good safety tool. There is strength in numbers.
5. Trust your instincts. I have written this in many articles about safety. It really cannot be stressed enough. Ed Hudson, a retired Montgomery County Police officer said, “It is sad the number of times a victim has said to me, 'I knew he didn’t look right or that trail didn’t feel right, but I thought I was being silly. I should have trusted myself.' " Just recently I found myself in a similar situation. My first instinct was to ignore my gut. I was being silly.  Then I remembered Ed’s words, turned around and took a different route.
6. Finally, always carry your cell phone. While you don’t want to run or walk down the road talking on the phone, it can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in a bad situation.

As a fitness writer, I find these articles difficult to write. I believe that runners and walkers are out and active and should be given the freedom to enjoy their routine. But I also believe it is easy to forget to take a minute and give your safety some thought.

I believe that drivers should take the larger portion of responsibility for road safety, but I have seen too many drivers with laptops placed precariously between them and the steering wheel to believe that they take that responsibility seriously.

I believe our parks should be safe for all runners and walkers, but the crime statistics say otherwise. So, it is left to us, as runners and walkers to take that extra moment to gather our thoughts before we walk out the door and think for at least a couple of minutes about the steps we need to take to some home safely.