4 safety tips for trail runners

The rewards of getting out on the trails during warm months are plenty. When the weather gets hot, heading into a forest and taking in the surrounding nature makes it hard to miss a run. On most trails, you’re unlikely to encounter lots of other people and don’t have easy access to help in the event of an emergency. For that reason, it’s important to watch out for your own safety.

Key things to watch for are unsafe terrain or encounters with wild animals. Every so often, we hear stories of runners  getting harassed or assaulted on the trails. We’re not saying this will happen, but it never hurts to be extra cautious. Consider these basic self-protection suggestions before heading out on your next trail run (these can be applied to the roads, too!).

Bring your trail running essentials on every run

Putting together a small collection of emergency items you bring on every trail run is the best way to ensure you’re prepared for anything. This includes extra fuel and water, a whistle, a self-defence tool, a small first-aid kit, a piece of ID, a map (for unfamiliar trail systems) and a cell phone. While most of us head to the trails to escape technology and get a break from screens, you’re still advised to bring your phone on every trail run, just in case.

Know the course well

Every experienced trail runner has been there: you look at a map ahead of time and are certain there’s no chance you’ll get lost. Once you come to a fork in the trails, you suddenly aren’t so sure which direction to take.

Memorizing your route ahead of time, starting out on simpler routes and heading out with a fellow runner who knows the area well are three ways to combat the awful feeling of getting lost alone in the woods.

The buddy system

The trails are a place of solace for many, and sometimes there’s nothing better than a solo, quiet run in nature. But there are benefits to running the trails with a buddy or a group that go beyond just having navigation help. Running with someone makes you less of a target to any predators (human or animal).

If solo trail running is still your preference, always let someone know where you’re headed and when you’ll be back. Finally, heading out with a dog gives you the best of both worlds–you’re not technically running alone, but you also get the benefits of solo running.

Limit distractions

Go music-free to pay better attention to surroundings. Being seen without headphones signals to passers-by that you’re present and alert. You’ll be able to hear what’s going on around you, such as someone approaching you from behind. Similarly, running during daylight improves your chances of encountering others on the trails (good from a safety perspective) and gives you the best visibility for trip hazards, such as roots and rocks.