Runner Survives Life-Threatening Attack Using Pepper Spray

"I am an avid runner and was recently attacked on my evening run by someone who had been stalking me," wrote in a SABRE customer last week. "I saw him approaching me and could not flee. I am so glad I was armed with SABRE Red pepper spray and credit this tool in saving my life. I am so thankful for your product. I am alive and always carry SABRE Red pepper spray with me. Thank you!" 

Traumatic events like this remind us just how important it is to be prepared. Here are some safety tips for runners - share them with an athlete in your life! 

1. Run in pairs
   
   You’ve heard often enough that there’s safety in numbers – and it’s true. Whenever possible, use the buddy system for your run.  
2. Choose daylight hours
   
   Researchers have discovered a strong correlation between light, or lack thereof, and crime rates. Stanford University recently found that murder and rape decreased by 43% and 56%, respectively, in that extra hour of sun you get each night during Daylight Savings Time. So, stick to daytime runs if possible, and stay close to streetlights as the sun starts going down.
   
   
3. Plan your path with safety in mind
   
   Use a police blotter to look up crime rates in your neighborhood. Also, run in busier areas with more witnesses to discourage potential attacks. 
   
   
4. Minimize noise from earbuds
   
   The louder your music or audiobook is, the lower your chance of hearing an attacker approaching. It’s ideal that you don’t run with earbuds in at all, but if you do, limit noise to a lower level in one ear only.  
   
   
5. Scan the area and remain present 
   
   It’s easy to fall into ‘autopilot’ when running a familiar path, but make a point of continuously scanning the area and remaining present for the duration of your run. 
   
   
6. Carry a personal safety tool 
   
   No matter how many risk reduction strategies you take, there’s still a chance the worst could happen. Be prepared with an athletic pepper spray, pepper gel or personal alarm.