Safety tips for runners

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – With the start of a new year, many people will take to running to kick start their fitness goals.   

Bryan Kelpe, co-owner of Missouri Running Company, says that one of the best ways to stay safe is to stay visible, such as reflective clothing. 

Things are going to bounce off of car lights that might be headed your way as well as lights, active lighting, blinking lights that are going to draw attention to the driver that might not be looking for you if you’re running or walking,” said Kelpe. 

Kelpe says the direction you choose to run is vital. 

“The other thing is to make sure that you’re running against traffic so that you can be proactive if the driver doesn’t see you,” said Kelpe. 

Angie Moses, Road Runners board member, is an avid runner and says another way to stay safe is to run in groups. 

“There’s always safety in numbers and, I think, it’s one of the best things we can do as runners is have a group with us,” said Moses. 

But for those who can’t run with others, Kelpe and Moses suggest safety tools.  

“It’s got this loud alarm on it, so this is an alarm. It can either be mace or an alarm,” said Moses.  

The reasons for running are different for many but a collective common goal is safety.