Keeping Safe While Winter Night Walking or Biking
When
it gets dark, walking and running safely pose a challenge. However,
this doesn't mean people should give up all nightly activity. Thanks to
numerous safety tips out there, it is still possible to go out at night
for a jog or stroll.
How to Have Safe Walks At Night
Winter
has shorter days. Busy work schedules make it impossible for people to
run, bicycle or walk when it's midday. They're forced to move their
workout routines in the wee morning hours before heading to the office,
or after work, which is sometime in the evening.
In
summer, it's still bright during such hours, but come wintertime, the
days shorten and people have to move their riding or exercise activities
to when it's dark and danger lurks everywhere.
If
you are looking for sound advice on how to see and be seen when night
falls, consider the info below. They apply to pedestrians and bicyclists
alike.
Seeing
Runners - Bicyclists, walkers and runners need to see as well as be
seen while cloaked in darkness. Having a clear vision of things will
help avoid falling into potholes, tripping over obstacles and other
related road hazards. If you are visible, there's little possibility of
getting hit by drivers.
Being
Seen - Bring along flashlights. Go for modern LED or a bright small mag
light /
mini size light. They're compact while still delivering ample
light. People who can't be bothered with carrying along things can
simply strap on headlamp flashlights.
Don
reflective clothes – Stick with lighter shades as darker colors reflect
less light. Even better: use advanced ultra-reflective garb. These
maximize evening visibility.
Several high-technology reflectivity options include:
1.
Reflective tape – It reflects light toward the source. Apply generously on exercise outfit. Drivers won't miss such noticeably bright hues.
2. Reflective exercise clothes – Most exercise apparel firms have lines
made from extremely reflective fabrics. They're often marketed as
exercise wear that double as bicycling, walking or other workout
apparel. The clothes are easy to see at night and keep its wearer warm
during winter.
3. Reflective safety vests – Highway workers wear
similar pieces. People can wear them on top of exercise garb so drivers
see clear human outlines. They can be worn over different exercise
clothing without need for alterations.
4.
LED safety lights – Add this to any of the above options to up visibility.
Other suggestions:
1. If taking walks with kids after meals, warn them to be careful with traffic.
2. If the community struggles with crime, observe the same vigilance
for after-dark exercise as other night-time activities. Stay away from
dangerous neighborhoods and have companions when running (canine or
human).
3. Walk or run at tracks or parks nearby to minimize contact with traffic.
Taking
self-defense classes is another suggestion. Aside from being a good
source of exercise, it will give those concerned about crime risks more
security. Keep in mind, regular runs or walks mean you're probably in
great shape to chase and outrun criminals. You don't have to abandon all
plans of running, biking and walking just because it's winter. Just
take the necessary precautions and you can continue enjoying your daily
exercise regimens.
DontGetHit.com
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