Getting Prepared for Summer Activities, Part 5

Cycling Safely

If you ride your bike as part of your regular commute, you’re already aware of the many dangers that can come along with it…

If you’re riding your bike in the dark, consider your visibility so that people driving vehicles can see you. You can never have too many bike lights — sometimes flashing ones are the best call – and you can even wear a visibility vest to protect yourself further.
If you’re riding your bike in the rain, wear extra protective rain gear and make sure your brakes are at 100% — working better than ever.
If you’re riding your bike on the road, you need to make sure that you’re aware of road rules for both vehicle drivers and cyclists and follow them carefully.

When summer comes around again, and more people are choosing to get outside and experience the joy of bike-riding, it’s important that we all follow the rules of the road, and make sure that even when we’re biking along pathways or in cul de sacs, we’re taking precautions and keeping ourselves and others safe. Below are a few more safety tips to consider when you break out the bikes for yourself or your kids this summer:

Always wear a helmet, even if you’re only biking a short distance. Make sure you adjust the straps so that the helmet fits snugly on your head.
Look over your bike before you ride it, especially if it’s been a while. You’ll want to look at the tires to make sure they’re well-inflated and that they have proper grip strength. You’ll want to make sure your brakes are working well, and that your spokes are all aligned. It’s also a good idea to double check that your seat is at the right height, in case you’ve grown since the last time you rode your bike. Last but not least, make sure your chain is on properly.
If you’re a kid or you’re about to do some rougher riding, you might want to consider wearing gloves, and pads on your elbows and knees.
If you’re riding in a group, stay in single file.
Watch where you’re going, being on the alert for potholes, loose gravel, animals, people walking, or other obstructions.
If you get thirsty from the exercise, make sure you stop to rehydrate!

If you have any other safety tips for bike riding, send us your thoughts in a comment below!

-Content created by Sophie Wooding – Writer, gardener, cyclist and emergency preparedness enthusiast!