Safe Running Tips

I know most of you already know the information below, but I like to post these safety tips once a year. Take a few minutes to read the items below. Be safe whenever you are running, and don't be afraid to remind your running partners if they are not being safe.

• Always carry identification with you; (get a Road ID if you dont have one)
• Always run facing traffic. When running in a group, do not take over a lane of traffic-keep to the side;
• When running in a group, look out for one another. Point out oncoming traffic, potholes and debris to fellow runners;
• At night or at dawn, wear a reflective vest and/or other reflective gear;
• Don’t run with headphones; (use your best judement, but from a safety perspective, it is a bad idea)
• Be alert for cars. At an intersection, look at the driver of the car. Make sure the driver acknowledges you before you pass or else give the vehicle the right-of-way;
• Always stretch after running. It is also a good idea to stretch five minutes into a run;
• Drink plenty of water. Even in cold weather you should be drinking plenty of fluid;
• If anything hurts, STOP. For recovery, think RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation);
• Make sure that you have good shoes that properly fit.  Go see Raleigh Running Outfitters to get the correct shoe for you.  All shoes are not created equal.
• "Don't be a Lemming" - In other words just because your buddy sprints across the street to dodge a car doesn't mean you should.
• Point out hazards.  If you see a hole, rock, (or medal hoop) etc. announce it to your running partners so no one falls. 
• It is better to walk a few minutes and still finish the run, than to run yourself into an injury. Take breaks if they are needed. Especially in the heat.

Happy Running!