Run Safely
Run carefully on the road
A study in America showed that the driver was at fault in only in 27% of collisions between cars and runners. Select roads with little traffic, good lighting and wide pavements; run facing oncoming traffic; run single file.
Wear bright, reflective clothes
They may not be trendy, but the key is to make yourself as visible as possible to motorists.
Don't wear headphones
You will be less likely to hear cars, dogs, roller-bladers, cyclists or criminals.
Protect yourself from the sun
If it is sunny, cover yourself in suitable clothing, sunblock and wear a hat.
Tell someone where you are running and when you expect to return
Make sure they know what to do if you don't return. Women should not run alone at night.
Carry identification
Together with any essential medical information (such as any allergies). Carry some money in case you need to get a taxi, or buy some water. I use a small velcro pouch – available at running shops – which threads through my shoelaces, which contains a spare front door key, a £20 note, my name and address and a warning that I am allergic to penicillin.
If you are new to running, start slowly
Follow our beginner's programme to avoid injury.