As the weather warms up, you’ll likely feel inclined to take a few more walks/runs outside! It’s a wonderful way to get into nature, boost serotonin levels, decompress from a stressful day, or start your morning more centered. Before you step outside, here are some tips for safety in regard to traffic, but also in regard to perpetrators. The more informed and prepared you are, the safer you are. 

    1. Run/walk in a group if possible. This is the most obvious one, as a perpetrator will likely feel less empowered, and cars will be more aware of you if there is more than one person. I recommend Gearhead’s Saturday running group or Native’s Wednesday night run group. Join them if the time aligns with your schedule!
    2. Tell a few people when and where you are walking/running. Let them know the amount of time you expect to be outside and that if you don’t text them back within that time frame to check in with you. It’s also easy to share your location if you keep your phone on you. Running with your phone can be annoying, but it’s an easy way to stay connected to others when you’re out. A lot of smart watches will also track your location and make calls, as well. 
    3. Run in the opposite direction of traffic. Most abduction incidents or running accidents happen when a car is driving directly by you, but it’s best if you can see a car driving instead of not seeing it from behind.
    4. Avoid complete noise-canceling headphones or wear just one earbud. Being able to hear your surroundings is critical and helps you to stay alert and aware. Don’t get me wrong, I love to absolutely blast music (it’s a form of therapy!), but I do make sure that it’s at a level that I can hear what is going on around me. 
    5. Go outside during the daylight. Running in the dark is the only time many of us can run, so I know this one isn’t always feasible. If you are going to run in the dark, try to pick routes where there are other runners or lights. A headlight can also be helpful for cars seeing you. I tend to stick to places that are lit, and that other people are more likely to be around, and I stick to sidewalks when I can. In my opinion, the location that you run is key if you’re going to run in the dark.
    6. Vary your walking/running route and time. Try not to walk/run the same route every day. Being predictable can make you an easier target (plus changing your route is great for your brain plasticity). 
    7. Assume that nobody can see you. Avoid running/walking in front of turning lanes, around corners, or extremely heavily trafficked areas. Even in the less trafficked areas, always look twice in both directions before stepping into the road. 
    8. Carry PPE. I suggest a taser, a metal stabbing ring, a small knife that can go around your wrist, pepper spray, or this alarm. When I’m walking, I carry these devices in a fanny pack.

For an even more in-depth article, check out my full blog on Running/Walking Safety Tips on my website, www.bethanydaviswellness.com/blog.