Some districts may provide the service for free, while others may charge only a token fee. Run against traffic if you must run on roads or shoulders. Also, don't wear headphones as you need to rely more on your hearing in the dark. Finally, vary your route, tell someone where you'll be running and carry waterproof identification or write vital information in waterproof marker on your shoes. In addition to safety considerations, winter also leaves runners more prone to cold-related injury.
Cold temperatures make the body less flexible, so stretching is vital.
Although the main weather-related injuries are due to poor footing, winter running injuries most often stem from being tight when trying to guard against slipping. And tense muscles, whether consciously or unconsciously tightened, are more prone to strains and other overuse injuries. Runners also usually alter their form to increase traction, which leads to further problems. Lateral foot slippage can occur on icy spots and if the foot slips, a pulled muscle or tendon may result. Running in snow forces runners to work muscles normally not taxed.