Safe Running at Night

Since we changed the clocks back a week ago, it gets dark here around 5 PM.  This does not give me much time to run when it is still light outside.  Since I am not a morning person, I have to wait to run in the evening after my husband gets home.  On my run the other night, I almost got hit by a car.  I run the sidewalks in my neighborhood.  I was coming up on a house when I saw a women quickly leave the house and jump into a car.  I keep running by the house while the she started the car.  Just as I was passing the driveway, she through the car into reverse and almost hit me.  Scary!  This got me thinking, was I being as safe as possible when I run at night? 

Here are a few tips I have come up with to keep us safe when we run at night: 

·         Run in a place that is well light so you can see other and they can see you.

·         Be visible.  Consider wearing bright colors, clothing that reflects light or even a head lamp or flashlight. 

·         Carry a cell phone. 

·         Leave the music at home.  Limiting your hearing will put you at a disadvantage when it comes to hearing cars, dogs, other runners or any other potential harm. 

·         Follow your instincts.  If you feel unsafe at any time, trust your gut and return to a safe place.

·         Vary you time and route.  Don’t make yourself any easy target.

·         Run with a buddy if possible. 

·         Run on sidewalks to put as much space between you and drivers as possible.

·         Carry identification, such as a Road ID. 

To keep all of you safe, I am doing a giveaway!!!  I am giving away a $15 gift card to be used toward a Road ID.  To read a previous Road ID review, click here.  To enter the giveaway, you must use the Rafflecopter form below and be a follow of this blog.  Good luck and be safe out there!!!

Do you have any other tips for running at night?  What time of day do you prefer to run?

A dream is a wish…

--Amy

***Edit: Road ID must have loved this post because they just sent me an e-mail with coupon codes for all of you!!!

20% off until 11/28 with code pcSanta220
15% off from 11/29 to 12/6 with code pcSanta215
10% off from 12/7 to 12/25 with code pcSanta 210