Running is generally a safe activity; however, runners may make it even safer.

The following are guidelines intended to improve your running enjoyment and to minimize risks:

• Wear a reflective vest when running at night, in the fog, rain or other light-compromised conditions;
• Wear bright, eye-catching colours such as yellow, lime green, red and royal blue to help motorists see you quickly and easily;
• Wear a headlamp or carry a small flashlight for night runs; consider wearing a light strapped to your arm or ankle that will attract attention as you run to make yourself more visible.
• Run on trails and sidewalks where available; otherwise, run facing traffic, in single file, stepping off pavement when oncoming vehicles approach.
• Always watch for vehicles and be prepared to stop quickly; drivers may not always look both ways before pulling out into traffic, making turns, and will not always register your presence;
• Stay alert and know where you are at all times;
• Consult or carry a map before leaving on your run; leave your planned route with someone;
• Carry identification, taxi fare and a cell phone where practical;
• Run on familiar and well-travelled routes.
• Avoid running alone on deserted trails and streets, and in poorly lit areas, particularly at night.
• Obey traffic signals; if the group is separated at intersections or street crossings, wait for the others to catch up before continuing;
• Use crosswalks or designated road crossings where available;
• If the group is separated at a crosswalk, either wait away from the crossing or at the other side; waiting for the group at the crosswalk and not crossing when traffic stops will confuse motorists;
• It is each runner's responsibility to ensure all crossings and pathways are safe; do not assume the runner in front of you has made the safest decision;
• Do not wear headphones--ever--when running outside, and remain aware of your surroundings;
• Pay attention to weather forecasts, and dress appropriately for changeable conditions;
• Look out for others, and watch for warning signs of cold or heat stress in yourself and your fellow runners;
• In extreme winter conditions, consider staying closer to home and running loops around a safe area;
• Wear studs or traction devices on your shoes in icy conditions; Some runners wear products like Yak-Trax or IceSpike, or insert hex screws in an older pair of shoes.
• Consider running on a treadmill during extreme conditions.

Runners are advised to obtain their physician's approval prior to starting a new exercise programme, and to seek medical attention for any injuries.

For fun and safety, run with others? join the Capital City Road Runners!