How to Practice Safety Tips While Running or Walking

Difficulty: Moderate

Running or walking is the easiest form of exercise, and it can also be the safest if you use common sense and follow some simple rules.

Instructions

• STEP 1: Find a partner - there's safety in numbers. If you must run or walk alone, go where there are other people.
• STEP 2: Run or walk during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must exercise in the dark, wear light-reflecting or light-colored clothing. Avoid running in the streets or in deserted areas.
• STEP 3: Be thoroughly familiar with your route. Know the location of phones, police or fire stations, and 24-hour businesses.
• STEP 4: Listen to your instincts and be willing to vary your route if you sense you're in danger.
• STEP 5: Run or walk against traffic whenever possible.
• STEP 6: Leave jewelry at home.
• STEP 7: Ignore verbal harassment.
• STEP 8: Always carry some form of personal identification in case of emergency.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a partner or group to run or walk with through your local running club, YMCA or YWCA.
• Beware of dogs. If they're threatening, don't run away or throw things at them. If necessary, yell, "No! Go away!" or "Down!" or "Sit!"