On March 8th, the Safely team partnered on a community event in Austin, Texas focused on helping women feel more confident and prepared while running.
Hosted at The LINE Hotel by Jamie Pratt in collaboration with Lululemon, the event brought together runners, local organizations, and safety advocates for an afternoon centered around education, connection, and real conversations about safety.
And yes, Pinky made the trip too.
Because every woman deserves to feel safe on her run.
As a women founded safety company that started right here in Austin, being part of events like this feels especially meaningful. Safely was built by four women who met at the University of Texas and bonded over not feeling safe. Today, that same mission continues to drive everything we do, from the products we create to the communities we show up for.
A Community That Shows Up for Each Other
The event brought together women of all experience levels, from those just getting into running to marathoners, all with a shared goal of feeling more confident out on their runs.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees participated in beginner self defense sessions, connected with local run clubs, and spent time learning from safety organizations in the Austin community.
What stood out most was the energy in the room.
When women come together to talk about safety openly, share experiences, and support each other, it creates something bigger than just one event.
It creates a shift.
Teaching How to Use Pepper Spray with Confidence
As part of the event, the Safely team led a hands on session focused on how to properly use pepper spray.
We walked through how it works, when to use it, how to carry it while running, and what to actually do in a high stress situation.
And of course, Pinky made an appearance.
Pinky is our life sized pink skeleton that we use to help people safely practice their aim in a controlled environment. Instead of just talking through how pepper spray works, participants were able to actually step up, spray, and see what it feels like in real time.
One thing we hear all the time is this:
I carry pepper spray but I have never practiced using it.
And that is exactly why we believe education matters just as much as the tool itself. Because confidence does not come from carrying it. It comes from knowing how to use it.
Why Practicing Makes All the Difference
Having a safety tool is important. Knowing how to use it is what builds confidence.
During the event, participants practiced their aim using Safely’s practice spray. It is a 100% water formula designed to help you safely learn how to use pepper spray before ever needing it.
We always encourage people to keep practicing after the event.
At home, this can be as simple as using using Safely Practice Spray alongside our mini Pinky target poster to build muscle memory in a low pressure environment.
Because in a moment where it matters, your response should feel automatic.
Runner Safety Tips for Women
Alongside hands on education, we shared simple safety habits that can make a real difference when running alone.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. Try to avoid distractions and stay present, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Choose routes that feel comfortable and well lit, particularly for early morning or evening runs.
- Let someone know your plan before heading out. Even a quick text can go a long way.
- Run with a friend when you can. If not, consider sharing your location.
- Carry a personal safety tool so you feel prepared if something unexpected happens.
- These are small decisions, but they add up to more confidence every time you step out the door.
Designed for Real Life Runs
At the event, many women also had the chance to see and hold Safely’s personal safety tools designed specifically with runners in mind.
The Safely Sidekick brings together pepper spray, a bright flashlight, and a personal alarm in one device that is easy to carry and simple to use.
It is lightweight, practical, and built to fit naturally into your routine.
Because safety should feel like something you can actually carry with you, not something that slows you down.
Why Partnerships Like This Matter
This event was a reminder of how powerful it is when communities, brands, and local leaders come together around a shared mission.
Safely is proud to partner with organizations and events that are creating space for these conversations and helping more women feel informed and supported.
The more we show up, the more impact we can make.
Looking Ahead
We will continue partnering with run clubs, events, and communities across the country to teach hands on safety education and share practical tools women can actually use.
If you are interested in bringing a safety session to your community, we would love to connect (team@livesafely.co). Feeling safe should not be something women have to think twice about.
A Safer Tomorrow Starts Today
Every conversation, every event, and every woman who shows up to learn and support others helps create a safer tomorrow.
