BE BRIGHT BE SAFE BE SEEN SAFETY CAMPAIGN

Get Active Down Armagh #bebrightbesafebeseen safety campaign is back for another year .The campaign which won an award from the NI Road Safety Awards in 2017 is now in it’s 4th year of spreading this very important message,Spokesperson for the campaign Kevin Gallagher says we continue to notice people not wearing the proper or no reflective gear and lights at all while out walking and running.The campaign would like to ask all runners and walkers to support this campaign ,simply by wearing the proper reflective gear and lights for others to follow your lead. We would like to see this campaign grow each year and get more organisations involved. Please contact us at www.facebook.com/getactivedownarmagh/

Most runners don’t realise that they are virtually invisible at dusk, dawn, and at night. Many figure that since they can see, they can be seen. Unfortunately, motorists have an extremely hard time seeing people in poor lighting condition. not only does it get darker earlier at this time of year and stay darker for longer, the weather conditions also add to the problems.
A runner wearing reflective clothing can be seen by a driver using dipped headlights up to 200 metres away, but the same runner only wearing dark clothes could be just 10 metres from the car before the driver sees them.
10 Safety Tips for Running in the Dark

1. Wear Bright and Reflective Clothing
It’s difficult for drivers to see runners in the dark, so don’t make it harder on them by wearing dark, non-reflective clothing. Make sure to wear bright colours, with reflective material or tape so that you stand out as you run.2. Wear or Carry Lights
Not only is it hard for drivers to see you in the dark, but it is also hard for you to see the road, trail or path as you run. There are many small lights that are easy to wear or hold that will illuminate your path while running. Plus, drivers will be able to see you. A small red light can also be attached to the back of your reflective vest so you can be seen from the back while running.3. Run Facing On Coming Traffic
The proper place to run is facing on coming traffic. Think about it. It is far easier to jump out of the way of an oncoming car if you can see the car coming at you.4. Don’t Listen to Music
Some tunes on your run are great to keep you going, but not in the dark. When running in the dark, you need to rely on all your senses, not just your sight. Leave the music at home so you can hear any potential dangers

5. Run in Well Lit or Populated Areas
Rethink your run route if you’re used to running on trails. Although it’s nice and peaceful while running on trails, you set yourself up as an easy target for someone to attack or accost you. Stick to busier roads and well lit areas. It may be a bit boring, but at least you’re safer.

6. Let Someone Know Your Route in Advance
Let someone know your route you are taking before going for your run.,also run a route in a populated area.

7. Check your headlights /Equipment Before Running
check batteries or make sure your headlight has a proper charge before you go for your run.

9. Run With a Friend / Group
Run with a friend or a running group when you can. Safety in numbers is best.

10, Run With Your Mobile Phone
Run with your mobile phone not just as a safety measure but you could help an another person in difficulty.

(Kevin Gallagher from #besafebeseen campaign receives an award from Road Safety Committee Chair Gillian Fitzpatrick)
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