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Officer stresses bike safety |
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Friday, 25 July 2008 |
By MIKE BURKHOLDER
Managing Editor
ST. MARYS — As summer heats up, a member of a local police department urges the importance of bicycle safety for motorists and cyclists alike.
St. Marys Patrolman Chris Green said he has noticed a few bad habits among cyclists while on patrol in recent weeks. Green, a member of the bicycle patrol unit, stressed the importance of following proper procedures while riding a bicycle.
“We have been getting a few complaints of kids riding bikes on the sidewalks downtown,” Green said. “They can’t do that. You can ride them on the road, but you can’t ride them on the sidewalks. That’s for the safety of the pedestrians.”
Green also cited several concerns regarding the riding habits of children. Green said cyclists, like motorists, must obey the same traffic laws while riding.
“As a bike patrol officer, what I see most is that kids are not looking while they cross the road,” Green said. “They do that where the motorist won’t necessarily be looking for them or the kids will ride down the middle of the road and not pay attention to traffic.”
While on patrol, Green said he routinely stops and talks with children to make sure they know and follow traffic laws while riding. Green also issues pieces of advice — and treats — to those he encounters.
“Sometimes it is hard for motorists to see them,” Green said. “I usually tell them to try and make eye contact with motorists so you know that they see you. I also hand out McDonald’s coupons for free ice cream cones if I see children who are wearing helmets.”
In addition to traffic safety, Green encouraged riders to make sure their bicycles are armed with proper equipment. Lights, reflectors and helmets can go a long way in making biking a safe activity, Green said.
“Most of that stuff can be purchased relatively cheaply,” Green said. “You are suppose to ride with traffic and if you are riding at dark, you should have a reflector and a tail and head light.”
Parents also can take a role in making sure their children follow safety rules while biking. Green said a family ride could help instill safety rules in the minds of children.
“I think the biggest thing parents can do is to educate their children and make sure they are aware of the dangerous aspects,” Green said. “It doesn’t hurt to take them on a bike ride — that would be a good time for a parent to test their kids.”
Green said officers have dealt with two collisions involving vehicles and cyclists in recent weeks. However none of the incidents have caused serious injuries to the riders, Green said.
“We had a crash last week where an adult was struck while riding a bicycle and that was because the motorist didn’t see them. Motorists should maybe slow down and make sure you pay attention to who else shares the road with you.” |
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 30 July 2008 )
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