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Sometimes runners forget that they
can be targets for violent criminals, but some criminals
target joggers purposely. Rapists often choose secluded
areas such as bike or jogging paths or park trails when
seeking victims; men who think it's fun to beat people
up often focus on runners because runners tend not to be
as vigilant as they might be in other situations.
Runners are often focused on their run, not the
surroundings, and that can be dangerous if someone else
is watching you or planning an attack.
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When you're jogging, you may feel
that your personal safety isn't an issue, but it never
hurts to be sure. Especially if you run at dawn or dusk,
make sure that you're visible to traffic or bikes by
applying strips of reflective tape to your sneakers and
clothes. Pay attention to the people around you or to
places where criminals might hide. Running with
headphones on exposes you to the risk of not hearing
someone approaching you: for added safety, run with a
friend, a jogging group, or a well-trained dog. And for
further protection, consider pepper spray for joggers.
You can buy a pepper spray that clips to your clothing,
so you don't have to fumble with pockets or fanny packs
to access it. Wrap it around your upper arm or clip it
to your belt so if you need it, you don't have to reach
very far. |
