Lots of websites these days include a "cycle safety" page. These are of variable quality, some are excellent while others peddle misinformation and propaganda. This is my view of what a generic cycle safety page could look like:
Cycle SafetyCycling is a safe and healthy activity, but there are things you can do to help make it safer:
- Get Trained! Kids and adults can benefit from professional cycle training. Contact http://www.ctc.org.uk to be put in touch with a training provider near you. Even experienced cyclists can learn new and important skills.
- Check Your Bike! A few basic checks before setting off can make all the difference between a safe journey and a nightmare. Most important, always check your brakes before every ride
- Keep off the pavement! Riding on the pavement might feel safer but not only is it illegal, the facts show it is generally less safe than riding on the road. Crossing side turnings while riding on the pavement is one of the most dangerous things you can do on a bike.
- Watch Those Bags! You'd be amazed at the loads people carry on bikes, but never hang bags on your handlebars! It interferes with steering, and can jam the front wheel with no warning and potentially disastrous consequences. Backpacks can disturb your balance too - the best way to carry stuff on a bike is using a rack and proper panniers.
- Read The Book! Cyclecraft (Franklin, The Stationery Office, 1997) is available from booksellers, libraries and of course the Stationery Office direct. It's the standard work on cycling techniques for adults and an indispensible guide to cycling roadcraft. You also need to know the Highway Code - bikes are vehicles and the law applies to you too.
Other things to consider:
- If riding at night, make sure your lights and reflectors are clean and working. Carry spare batteries and lamps, it can save a long walk home if your lights fail!
- If you choose to wear a helmet, make sure it fits properly and is correctly adjusted. It should sit well forward on the head, no more than two fingers' width above the brow, the strap should be well back under the chin and when fastened it should not be possible to twist the helmet on the head, move it backwards and forwards, or lift it. Remember that helmets are only made of polystyrene and can't protect you against cars or serious crashes - take as much care as you would if not wearing one.
- Gloves can protect your hands if you fall off. Bike shops have special fingerless gloves which are great in summer.
- Insects and debris from the roads can get in your eyes. Cycling goggles are useful if you don;t wear glasses.
- Proper cycle clothing keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. If you get too hot, or too cold, your control of the bike can suffer.
Happy cycling! |