1. Don't assume a driver sees you. In fact, imagine that a driver can't see you.
2. Always run on the left side of the road facing traffic. The best way to avoid an untimely meeting with a vehicle is to see it coming.
3. In busy areas, stay on sidewalks where possible. When running in large groups, it is much safer to be out of the way.
4. Run single file in congested areas or wherever there is oncoming traffic. Run no more than 2 by 2.
5. Respect a driver's right to the road.
6. Beware of stopped cars making a right hand turn. Either stop to wait for them to turn or go behind them.
7. Don’t challenge cars to a race. If you are both approaching an intersection, stop, let them go first.
8. Cross at cross walks or traffic signals whenever possible and look both ways before crossing. Obey traffic rules and signals. Runners, as pedestrians, are bound by traffic laws.
9. Use hand signals to show which way you plan to turn.
10. When using multi-use trails, follow the rules of the road. If you alter your direction, look over your should before crossing to avoid a potential collision with an oncoming cyclist or passing runner.
11. Always stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you. The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.
12. Use your ears as well as your eyes. Don’t wear headphones.
13. Carry identification or write your name, phone number, and blood type on the inside sole of your running shoe. Include any medical information.
14. Carry a cell phone.
15. Trust your intuition about a person or an area. React on your intuition and avoid a person or situation if you’re unsure. If something tells you a situation is not “rightâ€, it isn’t.
16. Alter or vary your running route pattern; run in familiar areas if possible. In unfamiliar areas, such as while traveling, know where open businesses or stores are located in case of emergency.
17. Run with a partner. Run with a dog.
18. Write down or leave word of the direction of your run. Tell friends and family of your favorite running routes.
19. Avoid unpopulated areas, deserted streets, and overgrown trails. Avoid unlit areas, especially at night. Run clear of parked cars or bushes.
20. Ignore verbal harassment and do not verbally harass others. Use discretion in acknowledging strangers. Look directly at others and be observant, but keep your distance and keep moving.
21. Practice memorizing license tags or identifying characteristics of strangers.
22. Carry a noisemaker. Get training in self-defense.
23. If running when dark, reflective great is a must (reflective vest, blinking light and/or a headlamp are all good options.) Also, wear a headlamp so that YOU can see.
24. If you need to stop and tie your shoe, pull off to the side of the road and out of the way.
25. Be alert at all times. Be wary of “runner’s high,†fatigue, or any lapse of concentration.
26. CALL POLICE IMMEDIATELY if something happens to you or someone else, or you notice anyone out of the ordinary. It is important to report incidents immediately.
27. Not a rule of the road, but to keep you safe, carry hydration with you on your run.