Douglasdale Police Station commander Brigadier Veeshani Arikum shared safety tips for runners, encouraging them to be more aware of their surroundings and avoid routines that could make them vulnerable.

The advice comes amid heightened concern over the safety of women runners after Elizabeth ‘Tsontso’ Moselakgomo (38) disappeared while out for a run in Kempton Park earlier this month, later being discovered dead.

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Arikum advised runners to consider exercising with a partner or joining a local running group. “Join a local running club or partner up with someone,” said Arikum. “Safety in numbers significantly lowers the risk of harassment or assault.”

Runners were also urged to remain alert while exercising and avoid becoming distracted by headphones. Arikum recommended keeping headphone volume low, using only one earbud, or using bone-conduction headphones to allow runners to hear approaching traffic, animals, or people.

She also advised runners to vary their routines. “Change up your running times, starting points, and routes regularly, so your movements cannot easily be tracked by others,” said Arikum.

Sharing details of a planned run with a trusted person was another precaution recommended by Arikum. “Runners can inform a friend or family member of their intended route and expected return time, or share their real-time location via a cellphone or smartwatch,” she said.

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Arikum further encouraged runners to carry essential items when heading out. “Keep a fully charged cellphone handy, along with personal protection tools like pepper spray.”

Arikum highlighted the importance of making personal safety part of a running routine before setting off.

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