| September 19, 2008 |
Volume 18, Issue 9 |
Published by the Tulane University Health Sciences Center Police Department for the Health Sciences Center
Jogging Safety Tips
As the weather begins to cool down we start to think about our health and starting an exercise program. Lots of people take up jogging as one of those programs. Please remember the following:
Run facing traffic whenever possible.
Stay on the sidewalk . It is difficult to see runners on the road. The biggest constant threats to urban runners are vehicles driven by people who don't notice them.
When crossing a road, always use the "look thrice" rule which means looking for traffic coming from the direction closest to the curb, looking the other way, and then checking one last time in the direction closest to the curb. The "look thrice" rule will become a habit and will eliminate many hazardous situations, which were not caught by a cursory first glance.
Do not jog or run with a radio or music-player under any circumstances. You would be oblivious to car horns or shouts to "watch out". Some serious injuries can be avoided given a moment's notice of an onrushing vehicle.
If a car appears to be following you at low speed, jog calmly into a public building and try to get the license number and watch the driver's reaction. If the driver reacts in such a way as to indicate that you were or are being followed, call the police. If you are far from public buildings, a residence can be used as a refuge-of-last-resort.
Don't skimp on the stretching before your run. Why is this a safety issue? Because stretching can alert you to a pull or a strain before hand, and will minimize the risk of pulled muscles during your run. You will have reduced the risk of having to stop in the middle of nowhere!
Always carry paper money because it will be easier to slip into a sock or is less likely to fall out of a pocket. Consider carrying a c ellular telephone .
Double-knot your laces before leaving. You may not notice an untied lace until it trips you.
Avoid running or jogging in darkness . If you must, always wear clothing with reflective articles. At the very least, wear light colored clothing.
If you have a dog in your path stop jogging and walk around the dog, avoiding eye contact and sudden movement.
Street Smart
Tip: Look Smart
When criminals on the street seek out potential victims, strong consideration is given to appearance. The criminals first determine whether the person is alone , which is the reason we emphasize the need to travel with friends. If alone, you don't want to be in an isolated or dark area that you are not familiar with.
The individual's personal appearance comes next. Is the person aware of his or her surroundings, or does he or she appear confused, non-alert or even intoxicated? When walking, it is important that you know what is happening around you , and are going in a purposeful direction. If you see something that looks suspicious, turn around and go the other way. Trust your instincts!
When using public transportation don't fall asleep. Keep your valuables close to you, and don't overburden yourself with items that make it difficult to defend yourself. Above all, remember that being intoxicated targets you as a potential victim by signaling to the criminal that you are not wholly capable of caring for yourself, or even reporting an incident with any significant credibility.
Rape Aggression Defense Class
R.A.D classes are being scheduled now. Please contact TUHSC Police Captain Jarrod Sullivan or Corporal Bryan Daigle for dates and times. Remember you can schedule special group classes for you and your friends and family.
For additional information or to schedule a class email rad@tulane.edu .
**Crime Alert** Crime ALert** Crime Alert**
Please report all incidents or suspicious activity as soon as safety permits. Remember to travel in numbers whenever possible, utilize crosswalks, park in well-lit and populated areas, and to use the TUHSC Police 24-hours Security Escort Services. Stop at the lobby post or call 988-5531 for information and safety brochures. In case of EMERGENCY call 988-5555 or 55555 if on campus, and 911 if off campus.
