1. TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU’RE GOING<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThis is a good idea anyway, but especially important when it is dark outside with fewer people out and about. Always let somebody know you plan to run and when you expect to be back. There are also phone apps where somebody you trust can track you along your route. If you don\u2019t return when you plan to, somebody will know to try and contact you or at least know where to look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I always tell my husband where I am going and how long I think my run will take. If I decide to add a few extra miles, I have my phone with me so I can shoot him a text. If I am more than about 10-15 minutes later than I said, he sends me a message to make sure I\u2019m ok.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On that note, always have your phone and a form of ID\/emergency contact with you. Another reason this is important is that if you happen to get injured, you\u2019ll be able to call for help. If you are unable to call for help, the ID and emergency contact will help to know who you are and who to contact. This FlipBelt<\/span><\/strong><\/a> is amazing for carrying all of your phone, ID, keys, and any other small items that you want to have with you. I got one when I started doing races and it literally holds everything I need to have on me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n2. RUN AGAINST TRAFFIC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nYeah, yeah…I know. The person in the photo is running right smack down the center of the road. Don’t do that. Especially on a busy road. The game Frogger comes to mind. Does anyone here remember Frogger? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Back on point, by running against traffic, you will be able to see vehicles that are coming towards you. This will allow you to get out of the way of potential danger and distracted drivers if need be. Yes, I’m talking about the drivers with their faces glued to their phones. Am I the only one that this frustrates? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you must cross an intersection, always make sure that no cars are coming before proceeding. When it is dark outside, drivers may be unable to see you or stop on time if you come from out of nowhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I always try to run on sidewalks if I can help it. I\u2019m super awkward on the road. Picture a squirrel or a deer. That\u2019s me. When a car is coming, I don\u2019t know what to do or where to go. So what do I do? I stop and stare and pace around until it passes. Not. Cute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Woman](\"http:\/\/liferunsweet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/laura-ghise-5DykCHKRm5Q-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\")
Photo by Laura Ghise on Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n3. ADD VARIATION TO YOUR ROUTINE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you can, change up your route and the time that you run. Being predictable in your routine makes you more of a target to creeps who may be watching and waiting. By changing up your routine, nobody will be expecting you at a particular place at a specific time. The last thing you want is for the wrong person to learn where you will be, and alone in the dark at that. This is a recipe for disaster. Try to have 2-3 different routes that you use, and vary the time of day you use them. Even if it’s just by an hour, it’s enough that you won’t be expected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. CHOOSE A WELL-LIT ROUTE AND POPULATED AREA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBy choosing a well-lit route, not only can you see better, but you\u2019re more likely to be seen. Try to run on roads or sidewalks with plenty of street lights or house lights that are turned on. Avoid trails or desolate areas in the dark. Poor lighting means a higher chance of injury. Plus, there will be nobody around if something were to happen, injury or otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure that your route is in a well-populated area where there are plenty of people around. Safety comes in numbers. You are less likely to be targeted if there are others nearby. It\u2019s always best to play it safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. LEAVE THE MUSIC AT HOME (OR KEEP VOLUME LOW) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re like me, music is what keeps you motivated to keep going. The louder, the better, right? But loud music poses its own risks. For one, you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you. You won\u2019t be able to hear traffic as well or if a person or animal comes up behind you. Your best bet is to leave the music at home so that you are completely alert. But if you must bring your tunes with you, turn the volume down. By keeping the volume low, you\u2019ll be able to hear your surroundings better. Consider running with only one earbud in as a compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. C<\/strong>ARRY PROTECTION<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNowadays, there are so many options for what you can carry to help make you feel safe. There\u2019s pepper spray<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, compact alarms<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, stun guns<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, and pocket knives. These items are all relatively inexpensive, coming in around $10 each. Some women I\u2019ve talked to even have a concealed carry permit. The important thing is to have something with you to give you a sense of security should you need to use it. Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable. This will be different for everybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI have one of the compact alarms<\/span><\/strong> hooked to my purse for when I am out and about. As I was unloading groceries one day, my hand accidentally got tangled in the wrist loop and pulled the pin out of the device. That sucker is LOUD! My ears were ringing and people around the neighborhood were staring. <\/p>\n\n\n\nDisclaimer<\/strong>: Be sure to check on your state laws before deciding on your form of protection. Should you ever need to use it, you don’t want your particular item to be illegal in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n7. R<\/strong>UN WITH A FRIEND<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere is definitely truth to the saying that safety comes in numbers. When running in the dark, this is especially true. If you are able, find a friend to go on your run with you. If you can\u2019t find a friend, look into running groups in your area. A lot of cities have running groups that meet up several times per week. A few places to find these groups are on Facebook or at your local running store. You\u2019d be surprised at how many people also run early in the morning or late at night. You never know who may be waiting for a running buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Two](\"http:\/\/liferunsweet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sunset-men-sunrise-jogging-39308-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. W<\/strong>EAR THE RIGHT GEAR<\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen running in the dark, you want to make sure you wear the right gear. Avoid wearing all black or dark clothing. You\u2019d be amazed at how many people I see running in the dark wearing all black. Like, for real? Dark clothing makes it nearly impossible for someone to see you until they are right upon you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, opt for light or bright colors. Look into reflective items or blinking lights that grab attention. You can also wear a lighted vest<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or headlamp<\/span><\/strong><\/a> that will make it easier for you to be seen. Those blinking lights may be what pulls that distracted driver away from their phone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. T<\/strong>RUST YOUR GUT<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDo you ever just get an uneasy feeling from out of nowhere? Like something just isn\u2019t right? If your gut instinct is telling you something feels off, trust that instinct. It could just be over-caution; however, it very well could be right. I am the queen of feeling anxious in situations, but I\u2019d like to think it has saved my life a time or two. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. RUN AGAINST TRAFFIC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nYeah, yeah…I know. The person in the photo is running right smack down the center of the road. Don’t do that. Especially on a busy road. The game Frogger comes to mind. Does anyone here remember Frogger? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Back on point, by running against traffic, you will be able to see vehicles that are coming towards you. This will allow you to get out of the way of potential danger and distracted drivers if need be. Yes, I’m talking about the drivers with their faces glued to their phones. Am I the only one that this frustrates? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you must cross an intersection, always make sure that no cars are coming before proceeding. When it is dark outside, drivers may be unable to see you or stop on time if you come from out of nowhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I always try to run on sidewalks if I can help it. I\u2019m super awkward on the road. Picture a squirrel or a deer. That\u2019s me. When a car is coming, I don\u2019t know what to do or where to go. So what do I do? I stop and stare and pace around until it passes. Not. Cute.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPhoto by Laura Ghise on Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n3. ADD VARIATION TO YOUR ROUTINE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you can, change up your route and the time that you run. Being predictable in your routine makes you more of a target to creeps who may be watching and waiting. By changing up your routine, nobody will be expecting you at a particular place at a specific time. The last thing you want is for the wrong person to learn where you will be, and alone in the dark at that. This is a recipe for disaster. Try to have 2-3 different routes that you use, and vary the time of day you use them. Even if it’s just by an hour, it’s enough that you won’t be expected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. CHOOSE A WELL-LIT ROUTE AND POPULATED AREA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBy choosing a well-lit route, not only can you see better, but you\u2019re more likely to be seen. Try to run on roads or sidewalks with plenty of street lights or house lights that are turned on. Avoid trails or desolate areas in the dark. Poor lighting means a higher chance of injury. Plus, there will be nobody around if something were to happen, injury or otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure that your route is in a well-populated area where there are plenty of people around. Safety comes in numbers. You are less likely to be targeted if there are others nearby. It\u2019s always best to play it safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. LEAVE THE MUSIC AT HOME (OR KEEP VOLUME LOW) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re like me, music is what keeps you motivated to keep going. The louder, the better, right? But loud music poses its own risks. For one, you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you. You won\u2019t be able to hear traffic as well or if a person or animal comes up behind you. Your best bet is to leave the music at home so that you are completely alert. But if you must bring your tunes with you, turn the volume down. By keeping the volume low, you\u2019ll be able to hear your surroundings better. Consider running with only one earbud in as a compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. C<\/strong>ARRY PROTECTION<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNowadays, there are so many options for what you can carry to help make you feel safe. There\u2019s pepper spray<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, compact alarms<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, stun guns<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, and pocket knives. These items are all relatively inexpensive, coming in around $10 each. Some women I\u2019ve talked to even have a concealed carry permit. The important thing is to have something with you to give you a sense of security should you need to use it. Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable. This will be different for everybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI have one of the compact alarms<\/span><\/strong> hooked to my purse for when I am out and about. As I was unloading groceries one day, my hand accidentally got tangled in the wrist loop and pulled the pin out of the device. That sucker is LOUD! My ears were ringing and people around the neighborhood were staring. <\/p>\n\n\n\nDisclaimer<\/strong>: Be sure to check on your state laws before deciding on your form of protection. Should you ever need to use it, you don’t want your particular item to be illegal in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n7. R<\/strong>UN WITH A FRIEND<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere is definitely truth to the saying that safety comes in numbers. When running in the dark, this is especially true. If you are able, find a friend to go on your run with you. If you can\u2019t find a friend, look into running groups in your area. A lot of cities have running groups that meet up several times per week. A few places to find these groups are on Facebook or at your local running store. You\u2019d be surprised at how many people also run early in the morning or late at night. You never know who may be waiting for a running buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. W<\/strong>EAR THE RIGHT GEAR<\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen running in the dark, you want to make sure you wear the right gear. Avoid wearing all black or dark clothing. You\u2019d be amazed at how many people I see running in the dark wearing all black. Like, for real? Dark clothing makes it nearly impossible for someone to see you until they are right upon you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, opt for light or bright colors. Look into reflective items or blinking lights that grab attention. You can also wear a lighted vest<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or headlamp<\/span><\/strong><\/a> that will make it easier for you to be seen. Those blinking lights may be what pulls that distracted driver away from their phone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. T<\/strong>RUST YOUR GUT<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDo you ever just get an uneasy feeling from out of nowhere? Like something just isn\u2019t right? If your gut instinct is telling you something feels off, trust that instinct. It could just be over-caution; however, it very well could be right. I am the queen of feeling anxious in situations, but I\u2019d like to think it has saved my life a time or two. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. ADD VARIATION TO YOUR ROUTINE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you can, change up your route and the time that you run. Being predictable in your routine makes you more of a target to creeps who may be watching and waiting. By changing up your routine, nobody will be expecting you at a particular place at a specific time. The last thing you want is for the wrong person to learn where you will be, and alone in the dark at that. This is a recipe for disaster. Try to have 2-3 different routes that you use, and vary the time of day you use them. Even if it’s just by an hour, it’s enough that you won’t be expected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. CHOOSE A WELL-LIT ROUTE AND POPULATED AREA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBy choosing a well-lit route, not only can you see better, but you\u2019re more likely to be seen. Try to run on roads or sidewalks with plenty of street lights or house lights that are turned on. Avoid trails or desolate areas in the dark. Poor lighting means a higher chance of injury. Plus, there will be nobody around if something were to happen, injury or otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure that your route is in a well-populated area where there are plenty of people around. Safety comes in numbers. You are less likely to be targeted if there are others nearby. It\u2019s always best to play it safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. LEAVE THE MUSIC AT HOME (OR KEEP VOLUME LOW) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re like me, music is what keeps you motivated to keep going. The louder, the better, right? But loud music poses its own risks. For one, you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you. You won\u2019t be able to hear traffic as well or if a person or animal comes up behind you. Your best bet is to leave the music at home so that you are completely alert. But if you must bring your tunes with you, turn the volume down. By keeping the volume low, you\u2019ll be able to hear your surroundings better. Consider running with only one earbud in as a compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. C<\/strong>ARRY PROTECTION<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNowadays, there are so many options for what you can carry to help make you feel safe. There\u2019s pepper spray<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, compact alarms<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, stun guns<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, and pocket knives. These items are all relatively inexpensive, coming in around $10 each. Some women I\u2019ve talked to even have a concealed carry permit. The important thing is to have something with you to give you a sense of security should you need to use it. Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable. This will be different for everybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI have one of the compact alarms<\/span><\/strong> hooked to my purse for when I am out and about. As I was unloading groceries one day, my hand accidentally got tangled in the wrist loop and pulled the pin out of the device. That sucker is LOUD! My ears were ringing and people around the neighborhood were staring. <\/p>\n\n\n\nDisclaimer<\/strong>: Be sure to check on your state laws before deciding on your form of protection. Should you ever need to use it, you don’t want your particular item to be illegal in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n7. R<\/strong>UN WITH A FRIEND<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere is definitely truth to the saying that safety comes in numbers. When running in the dark, this is especially true. If you are able, find a friend to go on your run with you. If you can\u2019t find a friend, look into running groups in your area. A lot of cities have running groups that meet up several times per week. A few places to find these groups are on Facebook or at your local running store. You\u2019d be surprised at how many people also run early in the morning or late at night. You never know who may be waiting for a running buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. W<\/strong>EAR THE RIGHT GEAR<\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen running in the dark, you want to make sure you wear the right gear. Avoid wearing all black or dark clothing. You\u2019d be amazed at how many people I see running in the dark wearing all black. Like, for real? Dark clothing makes it nearly impossible for someone to see you until they are right upon you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, opt for light or bright colors. Look into reflective items or blinking lights that grab attention. You can also wear a lighted vest<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or headlamp<\/span><\/strong><\/a> that will make it easier for you to be seen. Those blinking lights may be what pulls that distracted driver away from their phone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. T<\/strong>RUST YOUR GUT<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDo you ever just get an uneasy feeling from out of nowhere? Like something just isn\u2019t right? If your gut instinct is telling you something feels off, trust that instinct. It could just be over-caution; however, it very well could be right. I am the queen of feeling anxious in situations, but I\u2019d like to think it has saved my life a time or two. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By choosing a well-lit route, not only can you see better, but you\u2019re more likely to be seen. Try to run on roads or sidewalks with plenty of street lights or house lights that are turned on. Avoid trails or desolate areas in the dark. Poor lighting means a higher chance of injury. Plus, there will be nobody around if something were to happen, injury or otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure that your route is in a well-populated area where there are plenty of people around. Safety comes in numbers. You are less likely to be targeted if there are others nearby. It\u2019s always best to play it safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. LEAVE THE MUSIC AT HOME (OR KEEP VOLUME LOW) <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re like me, music is what keeps you motivated to keep going. The louder, the better, right? But loud music poses its own risks. For one, you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you. You won\u2019t be able to hear traffic as well or if a person or animal comes up behind you. Your best bet is to leave the music at home so that you are completely alert. But if you must bring your tunes with you, turn the volume down. By keeping the volume low, you\u2019ll be able to hear your surroundings better. Consider running with only one earbud in as a compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. C<\/strong>ARRY PROTECTION<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNowadays, there are so many options for what you can carry to help make you feel safe. There\u2019s pepper spray<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, compact alarms<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, stun guns<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, and pocket knives. These items are all relatively inexpensive, coming in around $10 each. Some women I\u2019ve talked to even have a concealed carry permit. The important thing is to have something with you to give you a sense of security should you need to use it. Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable. This will be different for everybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI have one of the compact alarms<\/span><\/strong> hooked to my purse for when I am out and about. As I was unloading groceries one day, my hand accidentally got tangled in the wrist loop and pulled the pin out of the device. That sucker is LOUD! My ears were ringing and people around the neighborhood were staring. <\/p>\n\n\n\nDisclaimer<\/strong>: Be sure to check on your state laws before deciding on your form of protection. Should you ever need to use it, you don’t want your particular item to be illegal in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n7. R<\/strong>UN WITH A FRIEND<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThere is definitely truth to the saying that safety comes in numbers. When running in the dark, this is especially true. If you are able, find a friend to go on your run with you. If you can\u2019t find a friend, look into running groups in your area. A lot of cities have running groups that meet up several times per week. A few places to find these groups are on Facebook or at your local running store. You\u2019d be surprised at how many people also run early in the morning or late at night. You never know who may be waiting for a running buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. W<\/strong>EAR THE RIGHT GEAR<\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen running in the dark, you want to make sure you wear the right gear. Avoid wearing all black or dark clothing. You\u2019d be amazed at how many people I see running in the dark wearing all black. Like, for real? Dark clothing makes it nearly impossible for someone to see you until they are right upon you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, opt for light or bright colors. Look into reflective items or blinking lights that grab attention. You can also wear a lighted vest<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or headlamp<\/span><\/strong><\/a> that will make it easier for you to be seen. Those blinking lights may be what pulls that distracted driver away from their phone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. T<\/strong>RUST YOUR GUT<\/h3>\n\n\n\nDo you ever just get an uneasy feeling from out of nowhere? Like something just isn\u2019t right? If your gut instinct is telling you something feels off, trust that instinct. It could just be over-caution; however, it very well could be right. I am the queen of feeling anxious in situations, but I\u2019d like to think it has saved my life a time or two. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nowadays, there are so many options for what you can carry to help make you feel safe. There\u2019s pepper spray<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, compact alarms<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, stun guns<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, and pocket knives. These items are all relatively inexpensive, coming in around $10 each. Some women I\u2019ve talked to even have a concealed carry permit. The important thing is to have something with you to give you a sense of security should you need to use it. Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable. This will be different for everybody.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I have one of the compact alarms<\/span><\/strong> hooked to my purse for when I am out and about. As I was unloading groceries one day, my hand accidentally got tangled in the wrist loop and pulled the pin out of the device. That sucker is LOUD! My ears were ringing and people around the neighborhood were staring. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Disclaimer<\/strong>: Be sure to check on your state laws before deciding on your form of protection. Should you ever need to use it, you don’t want your particular item to be illegal in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There is definitely truth to the saying that safety comes in numbers. When running in the dark, this is especially true. If you are able, find a friend to go on your run with you. If you can\u2019t find a friend, look into running groups in your area. A lot of cities have running groups that meet up several times per week. A few places to find these groups are on Facebook or at your local running store. You\u2019d be surprised at how many people also run early in the morning or late at night. You never know who may be waiting for a running buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When running in the dark, you want to make sure you wear the right gear. Avoid wearing all black or dark clothing. You\u2019d be amazed at how many people I see running in the dark wearing all black. Like, for real? Dark clothing makes it nearly impossible for someone to see you until they are right upon you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead, opt for light or bright colors. Look into reflective items or blinking lights that grab attention. You can also wear a lighted vest<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or headlamp<\/span><\/strong><\/a> that will make it easier for you to be seen. Those blinking lights may be what pulls that distracted driver away from their phone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do you ever just get an uneasy feeling from out of nowhere? Like something just isn\u2019t right? If your gut instinct is telling you something feels off, trust that instinct. It could just be over-caution; however, it very well could be right. I am the queen of feeling anxious in situations, but I\u2019d like to think it has saved my life a time or two. <\/p>\n\n\n\n7. R<\/strong>UN WITH A FRIEND<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n8. W<\/strong>EAR THE RIGHT GEAR<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. T<\/strong>RUST YOUR GUT<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/liferunsweet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/peter-kalonji-yr8zVg_-PhM-unsplash-1024x621.jpg\")