Could you believe the weather today? It was absolutely beautiful, and I just couldn’t resist going for a run outside. So as I ran down frat row to Mayflower Hill and took a left I was already in bliss. However, it was not very far into my run that I confronted major runner’s high buzz kill. As I took a right to go over the bridge a man seemingly slowed down for me. I crossed the street so I would be running on the right (well, left) side of the road and waved to the man in the car “thank you”. To my surprise he responded by flipping me off. Excuse me?! I couldn’t stop thinking about being run off the road the rest of the time, not to mention I didn’t bring a phone with me. Now, this wasn’t unprecedented, as many of you may know many people have unfriendly encounter with people around and I have heard too many stories about students being hassled or even put in danger. So, as the weather gets nicer and we migrate outside, here are 5 ways to stay safe!
1. Bring a phone. I know it can be a hassle, but I really wish I would have had my phone today and will never leave without it again. Put it in a shorts pocket, sweatshirt pocket, or even one of those portable pockets that you can get for your wrist!
2. Remember the whistle you got as a freshman? If you still have it, why not bring it? You know, just in case. Or you can buy one at Walmart. We attached it to my friend’s coat zipper today, which was very nifty.
3. Turn the music down! It’s important to hear what’s going on around you. You don’t want to jump in front of a car because you didn’t hear it turning behind you. Try to keep the music down so you’re aware of your surroundings.
4. Always tell someone when you go running (or biking, or skating, or whatever). It’s good to let someone know when you go out and when he or she should expect you back(ish). If anything ever happened, an injury or anything else, you’d want someone to be there for you!
5. Run in the daylight. I don’t know about you, but I hate the dark! Reflectors can only do so much and with the lack of sidewalks it’s really better to run when it’s light out. Lucky for you, it’s getting darker later now!
These are just precautions to take. It’s always good to be cautious when you’re dealing with your safety. Better yet, you can go running with a friend or two! Enjoy the nice weather, fingers crossed for spring to come early!