There are frequently persons who enjoy jogging or running on campus.
These persons, however, can be , susceptible to criminal attack. One
of the problems with joggers or runners is that they can become so
preoccupied in their physical activity that they fail to be alert
and pay attention to their surroundings. They sometimes become too
busy concentrating how much further they have to go and on putting
one foot in front of the next that they don't realize what is
happening around them. The following are a series of personal safety
tips for joggers and runners:
- Jog or run with a known companion.
- Jog or run in a familiar area.
- Do not jog or run in a heavily wooded, poorly lighted or
secluded area. Particularly if jogging or running alone, don't
wear radio or recorder earphones.
- Do not jog or run after dark.
- Do not jog or run near bushes which can provide concealment.
- Wear bright colored clothing to improve your visibility.
- Vary your route and pattern of jogging or running.
- Carry a whistle or high decibel battery powered personal alarm
device when you jog or run.
- If followed, go to the nearest residence, open business or
group of people.
- Carry your motor vehicle and/or home key with you.
Defense Against Dogs
Joggers or runners often encounter what either may be or appear
to be an unfriendly dog. If such an encounter does occur, the
following measures are encouraged: When encountered by a threatening
dog, the impulse is to often turn and run. This can be the worst
response, however, since such movement can trigger the chase
instinct in dogs.
- Stand very still and attempt to be calm.
- Don't scream at the dog and run.
- Be aware of where the dog is. Look in its general direction,
but don't stare into its eyes. This can be considered an
aggressive challenge to a dog.
- Let the dog sniff you.
- In a low voice say, "No' Go home!"
- Stay still until the dog leaves.
- Back away slowly until it is out of sight.
- If a dog does attack, try to "feed" it your workout
jacket or other item of of clothing.
- If you are knocked down or fall, curl into a ball and keep
your hands over your ears and face. Try not to scream or roll
around.
All
information provided from the University of Louisville, Department
of Public
Safety web site.
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