Cycling safety: back in the saddle

Published May 4, 2016
By Senior Airman Alex Fox Echols III
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- As the weather warms up, bicycle riders are saddling up more often, but biking without the proper equipment or knowledge, can be dangerous for everyone on the road.

Cyclists of all ages are required to wear a properly fitted helmet and are recommended to wear highly visible clothing during the day and retro-reflective clothing during the hours of darkness while riding on Tyndall.

"Seventy-five percent of bicycle-related deaths of children could have been prevented by wearing a bike helmet; helmets aren't just for kids, adults have the same risks," said Staff Sgt. Alexander Holmes, 325th Fighter Wing Occupational Safety technician. "Highly visible clothing is very important due to the small profile of a bicycle as well as more and more people driving while distracted. Equally as important is the use of reflective clothing at night."

When riding in the street, cyclists must always ride as far right as possible unless turning left or avoiding obstacles. They also must adhere to all of the rules of the road.

"A lot of cyclists are hit by vehicles due to lack of that knowledge," said Tech. Sgt. Robert Sikes, 325th Security Forces Squadron Community Police NCO in charge. "Whenever someone is riding on the road, they need to follow the law as they would if they were in a car, stopping at stop signs, yielding to the right of way and always going with the flow of traffic."

Forward and rear lamps are mandatory for biking at night, and it is recommended that cyclists install mirrors on their bikes to make seeing the vehicles around them easier. Also, riders should be able to operate their bikes in high stress situations before going on roads with heavy traffic.

"Be competent in your cycling abilities," said Sikes. "Always know your limits, especially when biking down the highway. Alternatively, there are plenty of paths in the woods on base that are not only beautiful but very safe because there is limited traffic."

Motorist are reminded to keep an eye out for cyclists. Mutual respect for the road is key, but in an age where not everyone is focused on the road, being aware of the environment is important for the safety of both motorists and cyclists alike, said Sikes.

Being prepared is also important. Cyclists should be active in preparing and planning their trip.

"Many mishaps can be avoided by using proper risk management before and during any activity," said Holmes. "The Check 3 initiative can make a huge difference in the outcome of any activity. Gear, Plan and Skills are the three areas a person should focus on to aid them in keeping safe while doing any activity."
Tyndall's Community Police is holding a Bike Rodeo in two months to teach the on base residents' children proper bicycle safety and equipment use. Stay tuned for more details.