Now that its getting darker earlier, lets create a walking/running/biking workout safety program for ourselves. Please feel free to add to this list. The more safety measures we take, the better: Workout during daylight. But if you have to go out after dusk, make sure you walk in a well traveled area. Walk to the store, walk down your sidewalk, walk on a well lit track. Dont walk on a trail or park, by yourself, in the dark. It doesnt matter if you live in Meriden or West Hartford or Greenwich. Bad people do bad things to good people ANYWHERE! If you see someone who looks suspicious, be prepared to change your route immediately. Do not second guess your initial feelings. Walk into a public store or a public building. If the bad guys know you are alert and aware of your surroundings, that could be enough to convince them to try for an easier target. Make sure your clothing is bright during the day and light at night.. I heard someone mention a safety vest at our meeting last week. Great idea. Im investing in one this week. When we were in NY a couple of weeks ago, we almost hit someone under a covered bridge during broad daylight. They were wearing a black shirt and black pants and we could not see him. What saved him? His wife, walking by his side, wearing a stark white shirt. Put little reflector stickers on your sneakers. Remember, your are not walking in a fashion show. Safety before looks! Always! Walk with a buddy. But if you have to walk alone, follow the above safety measures. When I do, I give my husband my route and I take my cell phone with me. I have a little digital icon on my phone. One press and it goes to 911. I also downloaded a flashlight app for free onto my phone. My husband knows how long it takes me to walk. He checks in with me. He knows if Ive been gone too long. If I change my route when Im walking, I call him to check in. BTW, he follows the same procedure when he takes his jet ski out. He gives me his coordinates and checks in. If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk on the road, walk on the side facing oncoming traffic - ALWAYS!!! This will enable you to take action if something happens on the road. If your back is to the traffic, you will never know what hit you. If you have to cross the street and you have to step in front of a car, always make eye contact with the driver before putting your foot on the road! Chatting or texting on a cell phone while you walk is as dangerous as doing those things while driving. You are distracted and not as aware of your environment. You are less likely to recognize traffic danger, passing joggers and bikers or tripping hazards. Potential criminals see you as a distracted easy target. 2 weeks ago, I was walking on the side of the rode, not paying attention. I tripped over a bag and landed face first. Thank goodness I didnt fall into the road.
Posted on: Tue, 09 Sep 2014 22:55:26 +0000
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