How to safely run in the dark

Sometimes you’ve got to do it. Run in the dark, that is. I’m not going to go into the reasons why you might want to reconsider it because you know them already. Instead, here are my tips for safely running at night. 

1. Run with someone 

Run with a friend for extra safety and company. The run will go faster and you’ll be safer. 

2. Share your plans 

Tell someone when and where you’re going and roughly how long you’ll be gone for. Maybe a family member or a housemate. If you don’t live with anyone, send someone a text message with these details and be sure to text them when you get home. 

3. Choose a well lit route

It’s a no brainer, but to help prevent you from tripping over in the dark, plan and select a route that has good street lighting. Always run on the side of the street that has brighter lights and also select a path that is even and in good condition. If finding a path with good lighting isn’t possible, then wear a bright headlamp to light your way and to help others see you. 

4. Choose a familiar route 

Running at night is not the time to start to explore new routes. Stick to ones you know and keep to the paths. 

5. Take your phone

Even if you don’t usually carry a phone when you train, when you run at night slip one into your pocket. Most running tights and shorts now come with large and secure pockets to easily carry a large mobile phone. Some phones and watches like the Apple Watch have an Emergency SOS function that allows you to quickly and easily call for help and alert your emergency contacts from your wrist. You’ll need to either have cellular capability or your phone nearby for this function to work, but it could be a lifesaver. 

6. Be seen 

Wear reflective running clothing and gear to make sure others can easily spot you. Most running tops, bottoms and shoes have some small reflective design elements, but if you really want to be seen consider these products. 

Proviz running vest
This premium British lifestyle brand makes excellent high-visibility and reflective running and exercise gear. The running range is extensive and they have tops, bottoms and accessories for men and women. My pick is the Reflect360 running vest. It’s ultralite, breathable, water and windproof and has two zip pockets to store keys or other must-haves. 

LED Shoe Lights
These ultra bright lights clip onto the back of your runners and are visible up to a half mile and the high quality LED gives a maximum light output and around 70-100 hours of illumination. The flashing setting helps you be seen by drivers in peripheral vision.

Glimmer Gear LED Slap Band
This one-size-fits all LED Slap Band provides you with easy on-the-go safety and is visible up to 500 metres away. Just “Slap it on” for a perfect fit to you each and every time. It’s perfect for around your wrists, upper arm or ankle. 

7. Take your ID

Accidents happen far more than you think they do. Each year approximately 450,000 people are taken to hospitals unconscious and without identification. So if you run into trouble, and you can’t speak for yourself, your ID can speak for you. But only if you carry some.

ROAD ID is a neat piece of running kit that you wear around your wrist, which enables First Responders to immediately contact family members and friends. It also enables hospital staff to locate vital medical records and can communicate medical conditions or allergy information to medical staff.

8. Listen and stay alert 

Leave your headphones at home and listen for cars, bikes, dogs, pedestrians and other possible sources of danger. Stay alert and focused on your run. Look ahead and take in your surroundings. If you are approached by a stranger, don’t stop – run on and should you get into trouble, be loud. Really loud. Would-be attackers are put off by people screaming and drawing attention to the scene. 

9. Don’t ignore your instincts 

Trust your instincts. They’re probably right. If you don’t feel comfortable, move to a better lit area or head home. 

10. Vary your routes and training times 

Don’t run the same route at the same time every day. Being predictable makes you more of a target and you’re less likely to pick up on small changes or potential danger.