Don't get run over when you run Published Sept. 14, 2009 By Technical Sgt. Jason Reid 20th Fighter Wing Safety SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Drivers, runners, joggers, walkers and power-walkers, we need your help. With the cooler weather, more people are taking to the streets of Shaw Air Force Base to work on their fitness. Due to this influx, the number of near misses involving vehicles and people on the roads is increasing. According to Department of Defense Instruction 6055.04, pedestrians shall face oncoming traffic when sidewalks are not available. Shaw safety staff have observed runners jogging with oncoming traffic at their back, which reduces the runner's chance of seeing a vehicle approach from behind. Also seen: runners using roadways during peak traffic periods, and failing to move out of the roadway when traffic approaches. The safety office suggests that if you want to run during the peak morning and evening times, you use one of the tracks or jogging trails, or hit the treadmill at the fitness center. Using tracks, trails or treadmills reduces a runner's possible exposure to a painful meeting with a vehicle, and reduces the risk of a vehicle striking another vehicle as it moves to avoid a runner in the roadway. Many of us enjoy listening to music while running. However, keep in mind that DoDI 6055.04 prohibits the use of headphones, earphones, cell phones and iPods while pedestrians use roadways. These devices inhibit your ability to hear approaching traffic or emergency vehicles, and can reduce your overall sense of awareness while on the roadway. Drivers and runners, please help the safety office by following the rules of DoDI 6055.04.If you are exercising on the roadway or operating a motor vehicle in an area where there are runners on the roadway, please do so with extreme caution. So, enjoy the cooler weather while on the streets, but keep safety in mind at all times!