Stay Safe When Running at Night or in the Morning

Safety Tips for Running in the Dark

Stay Safe When Running at Night or in the Morning

By Christine Luff, About.com Guide

Updated November 07, 2012

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

With busy schedules and limited hours of daylight, some runners find their only time to run is in the darkness of early morning or evening. Running in daylight is always a safer choice, but if you have to run at night or in the early morning, make sure to follow these guidelines.

Choose a Well-lit Route

It might not be your favorite route to run, but the most well-lit route is your safest choice. Oncoming cars see you better, and you'll always be able to see the road and avoid potential hazards.

Always Run Against Traffic

It's easier to avoid cars if you can see them coming. Avoid busy roads and those with no shoulders or sidewalks.

Be Visible

If you're running in the early morning or at night, even at dusk, wear white, yellow, or orange clothes. Also, make sure you have reflective gear on. Although some items (running shoes, jackets) already have reflective pieces on them, it doesn't hurt to add more. A headlamp is also a great item for runners who do a lot of early morning or evening runs.

Always Have Identification on You

Put your driver's license in your pocket or wear an ID tag on your shoe.

Vary Your Routes and Times

Potential attackers can study runners' routines and loom in a particularly dark or isolated area. Don't make yourself an easy target.