Every time November rolls around, we’re reminded of everything we have to be thankful for – and your safety should top the list! Runners have their own set of safety issues, since solo training sessions might take them far and wide. Here are some tips for bringing safety with you, wherever you run:

1. Plan.

Stay in neighborhoods with lower crime rates and try to run during daylight hours. It’s also best to plan a route around stores and public gathering spaces. This allows you to abandon your route, position yourself around witnesses and call for safety if you feel uneasy about anyone or anything in your vicinity.

2. Be aware of your surroundings.

If you’re running outside, stay alert! As runner and writer Caitlyn Boyle says, “It’s easy to fall into a rhythm and get lost in your thoughts – this is actually one of the things I love the most about running. But if you’re tuned out, you’re opening yourself up to attack or accident.” By keeping a close eye on your surroundings, you can see threats coming and adjust your route to stay as safe as possible.

3. Don’t blast your music.

Wearing your headphones in both ears will increase the likelihood attackers see you as a soft target. If they see you have at least one earbud out and are aware of what’s going on around you, they might just think twice about attacking.

4. Run with a buddy.

You can never be reminded about the buddy system too many times. In fact, Fitness Formula Clubs advises that “run with a friend whenever possible, perhaps even with a larger group, to leverage strength in numbers so that you are not an easy target.” Plus, when you join a running group, you get the added benefit of making new friends.

5. Wear reflective clothing.

Visibility is key, especially with the sun setting earlier and earlier. 6. Bring a personal safety tool. Did you know that the average response time to a 911 call in the U.S.A. is 11 minutes? That’s why you want a powerful self-defense option at your fingertips if you’re confronted by someone who wishes to do you harm. Runner pepper spray provides police-strength protection at a safe distance (10 feet) and contains 35 bursts for protection against multiple threats.