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Darkness |  |
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See the Index for more topics, information, hints and tips.
Well, this isn’t really weather, but it is a challenging situation that we frequently find ourselves in that involves special equipment and techniques.
More criminal offenses happen in the dark. So be prepared physically and mentally.
Carry a whistle, pepper spray, and cell phone. Think about how you would react to an incident where someone came up from behind or in front of you. Imagine other situations that are likely to occur. Investigate what types of things have happened before in the area. By thinking through these, developing a plan or considering your options, you will be better prepared to react faster and with more confidence in the unlikely case that they do happen to you. And that could help save your life. Read more about Pepper Spray here. Read more about Safety here.
Be watchful of other people – runners as well as others. Don’t be so focused on your running or your thoughts or music that you tune out the world. You need to be aware of what is happening around you. Be prepared to go to the aid of someone in trouble.
Run with a group; there is safety in numbers.
Make sure you can be seen by wearing light colored clothes with reflective material. If you are running near dawn or dusk be aware that the sun or even the moon may prevent someone from seeing you. Do your best to avoid this situation, but be prepared to take evasive actions if necessary.
Carry a good flashlight so you can see and so others can see you. Even on familiar paths, you need to be able to see the branch that randomly appears or the hole that wasn’t there yesterday. See Flashlights for more information.
If your flashlight is running low on energy, you can hold it closer to the ground so you can see better.
Wear a blinking red or orange light on your backside to alert others of your presence.
It is easy to get disoriented in the dark, especially if you are in an unfamiliar area or on a wilderness trail. Consider running without any music, earbuds, or headphones. With your vision limited, your hearing becomes that much more important.
I see so many people running in the dark without a flashlight of any kind. All it takes is one little misstep to twist an ankle or worse and sideline you for an extended period of time. It’s not worth the risk.
