Safety for runners

We are lucky here in Minnesota to be surrounded by so much natural beauty, and even more lucky to have such a great system of parks, trails and pathways which we can utilize to enjoy our surroundings.

But precautions should be taken - from time to time, you hear about an assault or attempted assault to a runner or walker on the beautiful paths and trails within our community and others. Most recently, there have been 2 separate incidents right in Maple Grove, involving what seems to be the same perpetrator but several days apart and in different locations of the city.

It's not fair that we should even have to worry abut this, but the unfortunate reality is that we do. So what can runners (female runners, in particular, though it applies to all) do? We have chatted about this topic a lot within the Champlin/Maple Grove chapter of Moms RUN This Town, both during our group runs and online within our private facebook group. Here are some of the great suggestions made.

1. Stick to sidewalks in active, populous neighborhoods or by well-traveled roads, during daylight hours.

2. Don't wear headphones, keep only one in, or have them turned down very low so that you can hear what is going on around or behind you.

3. Download an app for your smart phone that you can connect to the same app on your spouse or other family member/friends phone, which enables them to see your real time location and other important information.

4. Have a loud whistle or other easily accessible, loud noise-making device.

5. Consider having mace with you, it is made on keychains and in all sorts of portable forms perfect for runners. Be aware that this could potentially be used against you, but for some people it is still a viable option.

6. Alter your route and schedule...try not to go the same way, on the same loop, at the same time every day.

7. Always let somebody know where you are going and when they can expect you back.

8. Be aware of your surroundings. It is easy to "zone out" when running, especially on a longer run, but it is important to stay in tune with the environment around you. This includes looking behind from time to time.

9. Make eye contact and say "Hi" to others you encounter. This shows not only that you are aware and not afraid to be direct (which might make you a less-than-ideal target), but also will help others remember seeing you out and about.

10. If you have a large, intimidating-looking dog (even if the dog is actually a big teddy bear who loves all people including strangers), take it with you on your runs. You get that extra element of protection (for all an attacker knows, your big dog, with big teeth, is ready to protect you at a moment's notice!), and your dog gets some exercise. Win-win!

11. Safety in numbers, especially when on trails or quieter pathways. This is one thing that MRTT can directly help you out with. We have 130+ members and continue to grow FAST. We do frequent group runs and walks with anywhere from 3-20+ people and we have members looking for walking, running or training buddies on their own time. If you don't want to walk or run alone, join us, because you will most certainly have plenty of opportunities to get involved! And, if there is not yet a scheduled day/time that works for you - suggest a new one. Somebody else in the group is more than likely more than happy to join you.

And remember, we are free and open to moms/women of any fitness level. We have walkers, joggers, and runners. And we always have a great time! What could be better than meeting great new people, having fun, being healthy, AND feeling more confident about safety!?

You can join us simply by requesting to be a member of our private, closed Facebook group: www.facebook.com/#!/groups/champlinmaplegrove/