Run Smart at Night.

Run Smart...

By Diana L. Pacheco

As fall returns, so does daylight savings. Shorter days make for less daylight running hours. Most of us who work during the day and are left to run in the dark. When I run at night I come across many other runners out there too. My running partner and I get many odd looks as we dash by with our reflective gear and bright headlamps, possibly visible from outer space! But my thought is, that it is better to be seen than to be hit!

That is the difference between a smart

night runner and …well a not so smart one! Most running gear today has some type of reflector or reflective material on it, Brooks even has a

line completely dedicated to night running. General running safety is very important but especially at night when people can’t see you. My running partner Mary and I mainly run on well-lit streets, we use our headlamps to light up the shadowy sidewalks, which one can easily take a tumble on (and I have.) It’s very invigorating running at this time but it’s important to remember some simple tips for running in the evening/night hours.

Number one- run with a running partner, the more the merrier~ we have all heard the saying safety in numbers, especially for female runners.

Number two- be visible! Running with reflective clothing allows you to be seen. A reflective vest is highly suggested, sure you might look like a crossi

ng guard but there are several versions of the running vests; a headlamp is also important to light the dark shadowy sidewalks to help you avert uneven sidewalks and debris. Many sporting good stores sell head lamps light enough to wear on your hat or visor. Make sure you get one with enough lumens to brighten up your path. My headlamp has 43 lumens, which can light up to 150 feet.

Number three- don’t be a daredevil! It’s extra important to be extra careful at night. And to watch for cars when you cross the streets even when you have the green. Don’t dart into the streets. A lot of times people will turn without even looking for pedestrians~ most drivers don’t expect to see p

edestrians or runners in the evening hours. If I am waiting at a light I will make eye contact with the driver waiting to turn and wait for acknowledgement that they see me. My running partner Mary laughs when I scold the drivers who aren’t paying attention.

Number four- Always run against traffic, it’s easier for a runner to get out of the way of an oncoming car if you can see it coming! Also never run on streets with no shoulder or sidewalks. That’s why it’s very important to know the area you are running in to avoid any surprises. But it is also important to vary your routes so you do not become an easy target for att

ackers.

Number five~ Carry identification and or a cell phone with you. In case of emergencies it’s good to know you can call for help or be able to access your medical information in a snap. When I run I wear my Road ID, which can be a bracelet, necklace or shoe clip with your name and emergency information. My RoadID bracelet is interactive and my health and medical information can be obtained through discreetly by medical responders though the provided 1-800 number or interactive website.

Finally have fun! I love night running; it is quite exhilarating but be safe and enjoy your run!