Stay safe while running

There have been several recent tragic attacks on runners recently. Going ouit for a run is generally safe and if you follow some simple common sense precautions it should not deter you from your daily routine. Here are some guidelines to follow.

Before the Run

Try to get a running partner or run with a group.

Leave word with someone or write down where you plan to run and when you will return.

Carry some I. D. and a few dollars stashed in your key pocket..

Take a whistle or depending on the area pepper spray with you.

Do not wear a radio/headset/earphones or anything that distracts you so that you are completely aware of your environment.

Avoid unpopular areas, deserted streets, and lonely trails - and especially avoid unlighted routes at night.

Vary the route and the time of day that you run.

Run in well-lit areas at night and wear reflective clothing or a vest.

Run in familiar areas. Note the location of neighbors you trust along your route.

Know where police are usually to be found and where businesses, stores, offices are likely to be open and active.

Do not post your run or route on social media like Facebook.

During the Run

Run against traffic so that you can observe the approach of automobiles.

Always stay alert. The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are. Think about possible escape routes in case of a confrontation.

Take notice of who is ahead of you and who is behind you. Know where the nearest public sites are with some general activity - there is usually safety in numbers.

When in doubt, follow your intuition and avoid potential trouble. If something seems suspicious, do not panic, but run in a different direction.

Run clear of parked cars, bushes, and dark areas.

If the same car cruises past you more than once, take down even a partial license number and make it obvious that you are aware of its presence (but keep your distance).

If Confronted

Run toward populated areas, busy streets, and open businesses.

Ignore jeers and verbal harassment. Keep moving.

Use discretion in acknowledging strangers. Be friendly, but keep your distance and keep moving.

Do not approach a car to give directions, or the time of day. Point toward the nearest police or information source, shrug your shoulders, but keep moving. If you feel you must respond, do it while moving.

Do not panic. Do not run toward a more isolated area.

If Attacked

Keep as calm as possible. Try to fix a description of the attacker in your mind.

Do not show fear or plead - this intensifies aggression in most cases.

Try to talk to the aggressor and look for an escape opportunity - a moment of indecision or distraction on the attacker's part.

Do not fight or struggle with the attacker unless there is clearly no other way out, especially if you are untrained in self-defense.

Summary

The best way to stay safe is to run with a group. If you are already a runner the Jersey Shore Running Club has several group runs in the area. And if you are interested in starting a running program RunCollege with certified Road Runners Club of America coaches has a beginners program starting after Labor Day that will be meeting every Tuesday evening. Get info here.