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THE
ROAD TO SAFETY
by Derek Parker
(Coaching
Adviser - Kilbarchan AAC)
Sadly, although the winter training has just begun, we have already
had a number of accidents involving some of the club's runners -
including ankle sprains and, regrettably, the sustaining of facial
injuries, requiring on at least one occasion, hospital treatment.
Running is an enjoyable activity but athletes of all levels and at
all times must remember that so many of our roads and pavements are
full of potholes, raised slabs, loose stones and other obstacles.
We must always be vigilant. As well as pavements in poor condition,
there are invariably bits of wood, broken fences, strands of barbed
wire, low branches - some with thorns which can cause severe eye
injuries - protruding from walls, fences and hedgerows.
Add to these the propensity of people to step out of closes, shops.
parked cars, round corners etc and the potential for accidents is
quite high. So keep in the middle of the pavement as far as possible
to avoid collisions. Avoid running too close to walls, sides of
buildings and kerbs where a trips or stumbles could see you end up
in the middle of the road.
AT ALL TIMES, LOOK STRAIGHT AHEAD AND KEEP YOUR EYES FIRMLY FIXED
ON THE PAVEMENT OR ROAD AHEAD OF YOU. DO NOT TURN YOUR HEAD OR FACE
SIDEWAYS TO SUSTAIN A CONVERSATION WITH YOUR TRAINING PARTNER(S).
THIS INVARIABLY INVITES DISASTER.
It is also advisable to carry a mobile phone to summon assistance if
necessary. If any member of a running group sees an obstacle, he or
she should inform all other members of that group of the impediment.
It is amazing how many runners will swerve to avoid a lamppost,
fence, bollard etc without warning those behind them of the same
obstacle.
Please report all dangerous surfaces and situations to myself, John,
Arthur or Robert Hawkins so we can warn athletes in advance of the
dangers.
Running is a wonderful and enjoyable sport - but each and everyone
of us must play our part to ensure it is a safe activity for all
members of the club. Thank You.
Derek Parker
Coaching Adviser - Kilbarchan AAC
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