Safety tips for exercising outdoors

Outdoor exercising — walking, jogging, cycling etc. — has more and more appeal and followers.

Chubb Security suggests the following safety guidelines to make exercise sessions safe, secure and enjoyable:

• Plan routes in advance and avoid unlit, unoccupied, risky, or dangerous areas.
• Avoid taking the same route every day.
• Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be away — estimate return time.
• If you think you are being followed, cross to the other side of the road or make your way to a shop, house or service station then call the police. If you are being followed when you approach your home, do not enter. Go to a neighbour’s home instead.
• Always have your house keys ready when you approach your door. You are vulnerable when searching for your keys.
• Never use headphones to listen to music when out cycling, walking or running — you need to have all your senses focused.
• Carry a cell phone and a mace canister either on a belt or in a travel pouch around your waist.
• Take a dog with you if possible — or a friend. Better still, join a running/walking or cycling club.
• Walk or run facing the oncoming traffic so that you can take evasive action if necessary.
• If you are cycling, remember to do so in single file.
• Preferably wear bright coloured clothing while out on the road, especially if the light starts to fade.
• Keep to the outside of pavements and away from hedges and driveways.
• Never accept a lift from a stranger.

Source: Maritzburg Fever

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