We recommend arriving at least 1 hour before the race starts. This gives you plenty of time for parking, warming up, and any other pre-race routines.

Plan to line up about 15 minutes before the race begins.

Line up according to your estimated finish time, with faster runners toward the front and walkers in the back. If you’re unsure of your pace, use your best judgment and start a little farther back to avoid congestion.

Eating something simple 60–120 minutes before the race—such as a banana—can be helpful. However, we recommend consulting a trusted healthcare provider to determine what works best for you. If you choose not to eat, try to at least drink 8 oz of water 30–60 minutes before the start.

Parking varies by event. While most local races offer free parking, we recommend checking the specific race details for parking instructions and any road closure information.

Most races in the area offer race-day packet pickup, but it’s always best to review the details of the individual race to confirm their packet pickup options.

Your safety is our top priority. We recommend sharing your location only with trusted friends or family, along with your planned route and expected return time.

Check first light and last light to ensure good visibility. If you choose to run in the dark, take extra precautions by staying in well-lit areas and wearing reflective gear and a lighted running vest.

Plan ahead—let trusted friends or family know your route, wear reflective clothing, and use a lighted vest or visibility gear to ensure you can be easily seen.

Yes. We recommend carrying your phone for safety, navigation, and communication.

We discourage headphones because they reduce awareness of your surroundings. If you choose to use them, opt for open-ear headphones and keep the volume low.

Yes. Staying hydrated is important. Carry water with you—especially on longer runs—or at least keep water in your car for after shorter runs.

Yes. Running in the rain is generally safe as long as there is no lightning or thunder in the area.

Yes, you can run in the snow, but take extra precautions. Snow can hide ice patches, uneven pavement, or other hazards, so slow down and stay alert.

Yes—running in the cold is fine as long as you layer appropriately.

• When temperatures drop below 25°F, we recommend keeping runs short and low-intensity.

• When temperatures fall below 15°F, running outdoors is not recommended due to increased risk of hypothermia.
  After your run, change out of damp clothing immediately—cold, wet sweat can raise hypothermia risk.

Heat and humidity can create dangerous conditions.

• Avoid running outside if the heat is above 98.6°F and the humidity is 70–80% or higher, as high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling your body.

• Know the signs of heat illness: dizziness, nausea, chills, or stopping sweating.
  If these symptoms occur, STOP running immediately, move to shade, hydrate, and, if you don’t improve, seek help or call for assistance.