With warm weather and clear conditions in full effect here in Revelstoke, the RCMP is offering tips for how cyclists can stay safe on the roads this summer.
“The most important safety tip for cyclists is to wear an approved helmet - it is required by law,” said Sgt. Chris Dodds of the Revelstoke RCMP in a press release.
Dodds added that police will be ‘paying particular attention to cyclists this summer’, ticketing those who choose to not wear a helmet. Helmets should cover the forehead, be fastened properly, and be switched out for a new one if a fall takes place and the helmet is tested.
Some other tips to keep in mind this summer:
- Always ride with your hands on the handlebars.
- Always stop and check for traffic in both directions, when leaving your driveway, an alley, or a curb.
- Cross at intersections.
- Walk your bike across busy intersections using the crosswalk and following traffic signals
- Ride on the right-hand side of the street, so you travel in the same direction as cars.
- NEVER ride against traffic.
- Don’t ride too close to parked cars - doors can open suddenly.
- Stop at all stop signs and obey street (red) lights just as cars do.
- Ride single file on the street with friends.
- When passing other bikers or people on the street, always pass to their left side.
- Wear bright clothes and use reflectors or lights so others can see you.
- Make sure nothing will get caught in your bike chain, such as loose pant legs, backpack straps, or shoelaces.
- Avoid wearing headphones as music can block noises around you, such as a car blowing its horn.
- Anticipating the traffic behaviours of cars, trucks, and even pedestrians, can go a long way to helping avoid accidents. Use proper hand signals to indicate your intentions.
“Have a safe and healthy cycling season!” said Dodds.
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josh.piercey@revelstokereview.com
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