Police issue security guidelines ahead of the Rotary Cancer run on Sunday

Police has issued safety, security and traffic guidelines to be followed during the 2019 Rotary Cancer run on Sunday starting at Kololo Independence grounds.

Addressing journalists on Friday, police spokesperson, Fred Enanga asked participants not to neglect to take the necessary precautions to avoid risks.

“Arrive early enough so as to get time for thorough security screening and all participants should have bibs visible and fastened in their chest front and back of the attire,” Enanga said.

“We recommend that all participants with some form of identification such that in the event of an emergency, responders know who you are and who to contact for assistance.”

The police publicist urged participants who come with their mobile phones to be extra careful or else wrong elements might take advantage of the moment to grab them.

“Be safe by running in groups and the saying that safety in numbers definitely applies to running. Besides, it can be more motivating running with others, as family and friends.”

The police mouthpiece urged participants to put on light but bright clothing because of the hot condition but also for easy visibility from motorists.

He also warned on the use of headphones while running, saying it is better to run without the gadgets.

“This helps you better hear what is going on around you and avoid traffic coming from behind you. Using your sense of hearing helps alert you to dangers before you see,”Enanga said.

“If you must put them on, keep the volume low and don’t be absorbed in your music that you don’t pay attention to your soroundings.”

Traffic

The Kampala Metropolitan deputy traffic police commander, Rogers Nsereko Kawuma warned that there will not be parking at Kololo for the general public, adding that vehicles will only be parked at Hotel Africana, City High School and Forest Park Mall.

“Only those with parking stickers will be allowed at Kololo so as to avoid confusion. Vehicles abandoned on pavements will be towed to the nearest police station and the owners’ cost,”Kawuma said.

According to the event organisers, the 21km distance run will begin at 6:50 am whereas the10km run will begin at 7:10 am and the 5km run will kick off at 7:30 pm.

This year’s Rotary Cancer Run is expected to attract over 50,000 runners across the country to raise part of the Shs18 billion needed to construct bunkers and equip them with linear accelerators that help in cancer treatment.

Over Shs1.6 billion has so far been raised from three previous runs since 2015.