LLISWERRY RUNNERS SAFETY CODE

The following advice is intended to keep our runners SAFE at all times!

Before running, beginners should complete the club’s Health & Safety form, which helps identify any medical conditions which may place them at risk. 

It is also essential that, whilst out running as a club, we are seen to be polite, responsible, set a good example & not put others at risk.

AT ALL TIMES: 

BE SEEN!

You can never be too visible! 
During the day, always wear bright or light-coloured/ clothing - fluorescent is good.

NEVER ASSUME YOU'VE BEEN SEEN 

Always be cautious with traffic

ALWAYS FACE ONCOMING TRAFFIC 

Run on the right-hand side of the road if there is no pavement. 
The only exception is right-hand bends - in this case, cross over well beforehand, and cross back afterwards. 
This way, you can always see what's coming and take evasive action if necessary. 

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER ROAD/PAVEMENT USERS! 

Do not run on the road when there are adequate pavements
Pay particular attention at road junctions or entrances
Do NOT step off the pavement without checking ahead & behind 
NEVER run across the road in front of cars! 
Do NOT force pedestrians into the road

BE AWARE – LOOK & LISTEN

Your ears are part of your personal safety equipment!
If you listen to music while you run you are placing yourself at HIGHER RISK of an accident

CONSIDER YOUR PERSONAL SECURITY (PARTICULARLY LADIES)

Avoid running alone in unpopulated, unfamiliar areas and stay away from trails surrounded by heavy brush
Don't stop to give directions to strangers in cars if you are running alone. 
Carry a mobile phone if you are on your own 

AT NIGHT

BE SEEN!! 

ALWAYS wear light-coloured clothing plus a REFLECTIVE (not just fluorescent) bib or sash.
Clip on flashers are a great way to be seen

ALWAYS RUN WITH SOMEONE ELSE 

Preferably someone/a group of similar pace and ability 
Stick with your group and ensure the group stays together 
If you have to depart from the group for any reason, avoid going alone, and make sure you tell someone else in the group where you are going.

BEFORE SETTING OUT: 

Know who's in your group, who's leading, who's at the back 
Know your route, and stick to it 
Know the distance, and make sure you are up to it 
Be aware of conditions, e.g. freezing temperatures, icy/slippery pavements, etc 

IF LEAVING STREET-LIT AREAS, 

Wear a light, head torch or take a small hand torch! It helps drivers/other people see you 
If you cannot see where you are putting your feet in the dark, SLOW DOWN OR WALK! 

IN THE COUNTRY

TAKE CARE WHEN APPROACHING LIVESTOCK 

When approaching livestock - SLOW DOWN or WALK!
Be particularly cautious & give a wide berth to cattle with calves 
If running through long grass where livestock have been, always check for ticks when you get home. If you get a tick bite followed by a red ring round the bite, or start getting flu-like symptoms, see your doctor ASAP - Lyme's disease can be serious!

FOLLOW THE COUNTRY CODE 

Close gates behind you
If you have to climb over gates, always climb over at the hinged end. Climbing over the latch end puts pressure on the gate and causes it to drop.

CONSIDER HOW YOU WOULD GET HELP

Make sure someone knows your route & schedule
Take a mobile