7 Running Safety Tips for Running Safety Month

There are two types of people in the world, those that enjoy running and those that would rather do almost anything else. If you're reading this, it's safe to say you are part of the first group. You know why running is special; It's an all-season sport that welcomes everyone. Anyone, no matter their shape, size, or socioeconomic status, can enjoy running. The only thing you need is yourself, a pair of tennis shoes, and the right mindset.

As others cozy up in front of the fire, runners add additional layers to embrace the cooling temperatures. November is National Running Safety Month, and we want to provide you with protective tools you need to enjoy your run. These running safety tips will help keep you safe as you go out on your next run during months with longer periods of darkness, especially if you’re running alone.

1. Wear Reflective Clothing

SABRE Runner Pepper Gel with Adjustable Hand Strap, Pink

As it gets darker earlier, it’s important to make yourself visible when you run. It’s best to wear highly reflective clothing, like a vest or hat, and opt for bright colors instead of black so drivers and bikers can spot you.

Double-duty safety devices like a runner pepper spray with LED armband or a clip-on running safety alarm with LED light will also help you be visible to drivers and help you deter an attacker or call for help if needed.

2. Plan Your Route

Knowing where you plan to run will help you feel safer and more confident. Avoid unknown areas and if you’re running during dark hours, choose well-lit paths in more crowded areas.

3. Tell Someone Where You’re Going

SABRE Clip-On Personal Alarm with LED Light, Black

Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return, whether it’s by sharing your location or your route. Having a friend or family member who is aware of your plans allows them to follow up if something seems out of the ordinary.

4. Charge Your Phone

Not only will you want to have your phone charged to listen to your favorite playlist or podcast, but you also want to make sure you have enough charge to alert someone in case of emergencies.

Download the free SABRE Personal Safety App to alert your selected contacts when you need help. Simply press the "Alert" button and a text message will be sent to your contacts with your location. The geo-tracking technology will continue to update your location until you mark that you are safe.

5. Keep the Volume Down

Photo: Zac Ong | Unsplash

Staying engaged with your surroundings is a key running safety tip, especially if you’re running alone. Listening to your music at a lower volume or only wearing one earbud allows you to be alert to people, cars, and other situations around you.

6. Run Against Traffic

It’s always best to run on a sidewalk instead of directly on the road. If sidewalks aren’t available, you'll want to run against traffic or in the opposite direction of oncoming cars. This way you can see everything in front of you, and you'll be more visible to drivers on the road.

7. Carry Pepper Spray for Runners

SABRE Runner Pepper Gel with Adjustable Hand Strap, Pink

There’s no such thing as being too prepared. Take a self-defense class and carry a runner self-defense product to help protect yourself if push comes to shove. A runner pepper gel with hand strap offers immediate, convenient access to protection right in the palm of your hand. Plus, unlike pepper spray, pepper gel only affects what it directly contacts and is less likely to blow back in windy conditions. This runner pepper gel also features an adjustable, ambidextrous hand strap with a reflective logo to help increase your safety while running at night.