SAFETY TIPS

Safety is #1 one when you are training. Make sure that you are familiar with your routes and the hazards that may present themselves during your workout.

• Always carry identification with you (Driver’s License, Road iD, etc).
• If you do train alone, make sure that someone knows your route, plans, and distance.  Also, carry your cell phone and make sure your phone has an “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) number in its directory.
• Don’t train with headphones. If you do only wear in one ear.
• Always face traffic. When training within a group, do not take over a lane of traffic – keep to the side, no more than two abreast.
• Use sidewalks when available.  Stay off the road where possible and make sure you are facing traffic.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• When training within a group, look out for one another. Point out oncoming traffic, potholes, and debris to fellow participants.  Use verbal signs like “car left” or “car back” to let others know of oncoming traffic.
• Be alert for cars.  At an intersection, make eye contact with the driver of the car. Make sure the driver acknowledges you before you pass or else give the vehicle the right-of-way.
• More than ever, drivers are not paying attention to their surroundings when they drive. Cell phones are continually distracting drivers. We all see it every day. When a car approaches, assume they do not see you and give them a clear path.  We’ll say it more than once if you get into a fight with a car, you lose. Respect the road and don’t ever get complacent because you are in a group.
• In the pre-dawn, sunset, evening, and/or dark make sure you are as visible as possible.  Wear a reflective vest,  reflective clothing, headlamp, flashing light, blinking lights, and other reflective/light-up gear.