Over the last two decades there has been significant growth of the multi-use trail system. Northern Virginia is home to one of the busiest trails in the region, the W & OD trail. The trail, 45 miles in length, spanning several municipalities, takes its name from the railroad, the Washington & Old Dominion, whose trains ran along the right-of-way from 1859 until 1968. On any given day people flock to the W & OD trail and trails around the country to run, ride, skate, walk, bird watch, picnic, and more. The Road Runners Club of America takes this opportunity to share these important safety tips when training on the growing number of multi-use trails around the country. These safety tips, coupled with the RRCA General Running Safety Tips (http://www.rrca.org/programs/education/safety.pdf) should help keep everyone on the multi-use trail safe. Follow the rules of the road - travel on the right and pass on the left. Don't run down the middle of the trail. Run to the right side to allow others to pass safely.

Don't wear headphones - but if you insist on going against this RRCA safety guideline, keep the volume low or only wear one headphone. If you are running an out-and-back route on a trail, don't just make a sudden u-turn at your turn around point. Stop, step to the right to allow oncoming traffic the opportunity to pass. If you are wearing headphones, now is a good time to pop out an earphone to make sure no one is approaching. Ensure the trail is clear of oncoming traffic (runners, cyclists, in-line skaters, etc.) then make your u-turn. Making a sudden u-turn without looking over your shoulder is a good way to get hit by an oncoming cyclist or skater.

Avoid running on trails in the evening if they are not well lit and do not have regular traffic.

Never run more than two abreast if you are running in a group. Don't be a trail hog. While pedestrians have the right of way on most trails, the goal is to share the trails.

Alert people when you are passing them - don't assume they are aware of their surroundings. A simple "on your left" warning will suffice. Be alert on blind curves.

Stop at stop signs if the trail crosses a roadway. Don't assume cars on the road will stop for the trail crossing.

Be mindful of young children on the trail - their movements can be unpredictable. Slowing the pace a bit when you pass small children on the trail is a wise idea. Use this as an opportunity to slow the pace then pick up the tempo. Respect private property along the trail.

Don't litter. If you can't find a trash can, carry your trash home. Get approval from local authorities before planning a race or training event on your local multi-use trail.

If you run with a dog, keep it on a short leash. Long leashes can create a hazard for your pet and passing runners, cyclists or skaters.