Safety on the Trail
Courtney Guillen, Winter Garden Runners
We spend countless hours on the West Orange Trail running on the trail in the wee hours in the morning. There are many trail crossings and other runners/cyclists and wildlife on the trail trying to get in miles before the sun rises. There are not any street lights along
the trail yet. So make sure when you are running along the trail you follow these safety tips in order to be safer in the dark!
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Wear reflective or bright clothing. Make yourself visible! Assume people do not see you. The brighter the clothing, the more
likely others will know you are coming. Super bright colors like safety green are reflective as well!
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Wear a light. There are many lights available at any sporting goods store. Get one to clip on to your visor for around $15. A
wise investment to see what is ahead on the trail. Whether it’s a cute little bunny or a cyclists coming towards you, you will
be aware!
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Wear a Road ID. Road IDs are bracelets with your families’ contact info in case of emergency and possible allergies/medical
issues. This is recommended for running at any time of day. Visit www.roadid.com for more specifics. Plus, they are a great
company!
•
Run with a buddy! This is incredibly important. Find someone your pace and run with them.
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Pepper spray. As an option, there are small cans on a keychain.
Here are some tips for anytime:
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Let someone know where you are! Tell them where you are running and how far. There is a very helpful Road ID app available
on your smart phone.
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Run with only one or no headphones. Having one in each ear keeps you from hearing what is coming from behind.
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Bring your phone! You never know when will need it. A phone fits great in a running belt of any kind.
Winter Garden Runners meet every M/W/F in front of Tri & Run of West Orange in Downtown Winter Garden at 5:15am, Thursdays
at 6:45pm and Saturdays at 7am. We have runners of all paces. You’re welcome to visit our Facebook page: Winter Garden Runners for
more information. We would love for you to join us!
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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APRIL 2015