Actions taken: multiple students left in darkness
Catching Potential Dangers on Two Wheels: A Surprising School Check Result
Last week, police and local authorities conducted surprise bike checks for students commuting to school. Shocker! Over half (55) out of the 89 students inspected were discovered to be riding potentially dangerous bikes. The main issues? Poor lighting and hard-to-spot clothing.
In light of this, the authorities remind every cyclist, including the young ones, to check their bikes, gear, and clothing carefully. especially during the colder months.
To enhance safety for our young cyclists, here are some useful tips to boost visibility and maintain bike condition:
Increasing Visibility1. Equip your bike and clothing with reflective gear, such as armbands, ankle straps, or stickers. Opt for bright or fluorescent clothes to grab the attention of drivers.2. Light up the night! Install reliable front and rear lights on your bike that can be seen from a distance. LED lights, being energy-efficient and bright, would be a wise choice.3. Consider using goggles or glasses with good visibility on a foggy or rainy day, and helmets with built-in lights or reflectors whenever possible.
Maintaining Bike Condition1. Regular maintenance is key! Ensure that brakes, tire pressure, and moving parts are in good working condition. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.2. Select tires with good grip for better control on slippery surfaces. Winter-specific tires may provide an added advantage with their aggressive tread patterns.3. Use mudguards to prevent mud and water from affecting your bike or your ride.4. Choose a wet lube developed for winter conditions to prevent corrosion and maintain smooth operation of moving parts.
Want more tips? Here you go:- Wear warm, layered clothing, including a waterproof outer layer and woolen accessories like socks and gloves.- Stay safe by riding in well-lit areas, being mindful of reduced visibility, slower reaction times, and local cycling rules.- Connect with local cycling groups to learn from experienced cyclists and gather additional safety tips.
Stay safe out there, and have a happy journey!
In the spirit of promoting health-and-wellness and education-and-self-development, students and cyclists of all ages can bolster their safety habits by incorporating reflective gear into their clothing and bikes, ensuring the installation of reliable front and rear lights, and prioritizing regular bike maintenance. Additionally, participating in sports couldn't be more vital in helping individuals develop a heightened awareness and response to potential dangers lurking on two wheels, especially for those cycling to school.
