Raiders, stay safe!
by Stephanie Meza
With the abduction of cross country runner, Chelsea King, in early 2010, runners all over San Diego are being more aware of the safety techniques they should consider for running on the street. Chelsea King was an eye-opener for everyone to see the reality of abductions. This reality became even more alarming a few days ago on September 7th, when someone attempted to abduct one of our cross country runner during practice. During the daily practice, one of the XC athletes was finishing her run when a car approached, and tried to pull her in. Luckily, she escaped and managed to get back to the school safe.
The cross country runners are aware of the dangers they might face while running in the street, but they never had the problem of having one of their team mates in danger. Fortunately, everyone is all right and the problem is now in hands of the police. But should we feel completely safe? Unfortunately, it's the third time in 2010 in which a student from SOH was almost abducted, and this puts some of our Raiders in panic. There's no need to be scared, if you take the necessary precautions when you go run or even walk home, you should be safe.
Always consider the following while walking/running in the street:
• Ditch your music:
Leave your mp3 device at home. If you lose the sense of hearing, you're not aware of any potential threats that might be around you.
• Run with a buddy:
Always take someone with you during your run, if not, let someone else know what route your taking before you take off.
• Vary your routes and times:
Don't make yourself a target, attackers may follow your routine if you do the same one everyday.
• Carry a cell phone:
Immediately contact the police if situations get out of the ordinary.
• Most importantly, FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS:
Trust your gut, be safe, if you feel you're being followed, you probably are. NEVER second guess yourself in an unusual situation. SAFETY is ALWAYS the number on PRIORITY.
