Bike Safety

The following is an outline for Bike Safety:

1. CHOOSE AND MAINTAIN A SAFE BICYCLE.
   1. Proper size
   2. Reflectors
      1. White – front
      2. Red – back
      3. White or Yellow – sides and pedals
   3. Lights
      1. White – front
      2. Red – back
   4. Pre-ride bike checks
      1. Wheels and tires
      2. Chain and cables
      3. Frame, seat and handlebars
      4. Lights, reflectors and bells/horns
      5. Yearly professional inspection
2. PROPER HELMET AND USE.
   1. ANSI approved helmets.
   2. How to fit and wear helmet.
      1. Comfortable, well ventilated, padded, snug fitting.
      2. Wear low on forehead, not tilted back.
      3. Excellent visibility.
   3. Care and maintenance.
      1. Keep clean and dry.
      2. Do not store in hot climates (i.e. hot auto).
      3. Do not handle carelessly (i.e. drop or throw).
3. GOOD BODY VISIBILITY.
   1. Wear reflective clothing/tape.
   2. Dress in layers in cold weather.
   3. Avoid long loose clothing.
   4. Wear leg clips with long pants.
   5. Wear eye and hand protection.
4. SHARE ROAD WITH OTHERS.

A. Cycle defensively

1. Assume others do not see you.
2. Yield to cars
3. Obey rules of the road.
4. Avoid heavy traffic areas.
5. Keep safe distance from cars.
6. Enter roadways carefully.
7. Check before changing lanes.
8. Make SAFE LEFT and RIGHT turns
9. BE ALERT IN SPECIAL SITUATIONS.
10. Rain or bad weather.
11. Nighttime.
12. Uneven or slippery road surfaces.
13. Cycling with other children.
14. Animals.
15. Speed bumps.
16. Trolley tracks.
17. Long distances.
18. PROTECT YOUR BICYCLE FROM THIEVES.
19. Register your bike with local police department.

B. Keep a file.

1. Serial number.
2. Registration number.
3. Mark your bike with your name or identifier.
4. Consider insuring your bicycle.

Always lock your bicycle.

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