Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 59, June 2014 | Page 11

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Safety FIRST!
When days are dark, runners are
few.... or just not visible! So take
it from a professional runner that
spends a lot of time out on the
roads: Be safe out there! –

That said, as winter approaches I’m normally
reluctant to start wearing my reflective gear,
because then I accept the fact that cold dark
mornings are awaiting me. I also feel a bit stupid
when I’m still wearing my reflective vest at the
end of my run after sunrise... but I value safety
over fashion, even if I have to look a bit silly on
the run.

BY RENE KALMER

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ESSENTIAL ADVICE

Being visible is just part of the basic safety rules
all runners should follow, and even though most
are common sense, it is still worrying to spot so
many runners not following them. Here are a few
safety tips that I always remember to keep both
myself and other road users safe when I hit the
road for a run.

oad safety is something that is close to
my heart, especially after I witnessed my training
partner Irvette van Zyl get knocked down by a
car on a training run a few years back. The car
overtook another car while speeding in a residential
area. As a result, these days I look like a complete
maniac on my afternoon runs, waving my hands
to motorists, showing them to slow down. It is my
worst fear to be knocked down by a car while doing
what I love most...

1. Run on the right: Always face oncoming

traffic, so you can clearly see cars and react
quickly if necessary.
2. Single file: If you are lucky enough to have
a running partner or training group, remember
to run in single file when cars are approaching,
and beware of blind curves or hills – jump on the
pavement if it is necessary.
3. Resp