One of the downsides to running long distances or in secluded areas is the fear that can come along with running along. Women are most susceptible to finding trouble along the route, but there are things you can do to protect yourself. You should do your best to practice safety while on the run. It will keep the workout more enjoyable if you feel confident that you are protecting yourself.
Be Alert and Proactive
Runners everywhere tend to enjoy running with earbuds in their ears. However, this can be one of the worst things you can do for yourself and your personal safety. While wearing earbuds, you are blocking sounds that may alert you to hidden dangers. Would you hear a bicyclist coming up behind you? A vehicle? Instead of wearing both earbuds, and if you simply want to listen to music, you should leave one out so that you remain aware of everything around yourself.
Brighter is better in the words of many runners. Ideally, you should run during daylight hours where people are nearby. Running during the darker hours, although unavoidable at times, definitely increases your risk. To help yourself stay safer, you can run with bright or reflective clothing, a headlamp, etc. Anything that will allow you to stand out. Also, at night, you should avoid the secluded areas of your favorite park. Instead, stay close to your neighborhood, even if you have to stick to the sidewalks.
Carry Alongs You Should Consider
If you feel that you are in a potentially bad situation, make some noise. The best way to do this is to have a personal safety device, like a wristwatch, that can send out a call for help when activated. Loud siren safety devices can be the size of a keychain and easy to tuck in a pocket or the waistband of your pants. When considering personal safety devices, pepper spray should also never be overlooked.
Your phone, with GPS tracking that links to a friend or family member, is also a good idea, especially since you will likely have it with you anyway. In cases of extreme or immediate danger when you cannot seem to scare away a bad animal or person, you may also want to have easy access to a scout carry knife. These fixed blade knives are horizontal carry so that you do not have to waste time when trying to protect yourself.
Knowledge is Power and Safety!
Running is a healthy way to stay active. No one ever plans on the potential risk to personal safety, unless you have already had a bad experience. Arm yourself with knowledge. Know the type of people who live near the area you like to run and learn defensive techniques that can save your life. If you prefer to run in secluded areas or for a long-distance, tell family members the route that you typically take. Let them know about how long you expect to be out, install apps that can help them locate your phone, etc. Knowledge may not save you from all dangers, but it can go a long way to ensuring you get help when you need it the most.