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Bicycle safety: It's in the ride

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan Bass
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Summer is here and that means the days are longer, the weather is warmer, and bicyclists are sharing the road.

Riding responsibly can be the difference between life and death for a bicyclist, which is why it's imperative to be familiar with bicycle safety measures.

"A key thing to remember about bicycle safety, particularly in the context of the Critical Days of Summer is hydration," said Tech. Sgt Steven Freeman, 20th Fighter Wing ground safety technician. "Sumter has high summer heat and humidity; you want to make sure you're hydrating."

It's important to begin hydrating before you begin your ride in the summer sun, equally important is In addition to hydration, inspecting the bicycle.

"Just like checking on a government owned vehicle, you want to inspect the bike and make sure you're good to go," said Freeman.

Freeman said to check the tire pressure, test the brakes, and listen for leaks in the tires, to inspect the chains for rust or wear and determine if more oil should be applied.

As far as protective equipment is concerned, the Air Force Instruction is clear.

According to AFI 91, the U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program, 3.6.4 details the requirements for riding a bicycle on base. These requirements include: wearing a reflective vest at all times, day or night, wearing a properly fastened, National Highway Traffic Safety Association approved helmet, ensuring the bicycle has a white front light that can be seen from 500 feet and a red reflector or light that can be seen from 500 feet. Also included, but under commander's discretion, is the use of padding for the elbows, knees, and wrists.

Freeman said it boils down to safety, if you can be seen; you're more likely to be safe.

Since bicycles are considered vehicles, Freeman said it's important to know the proper hand signals to indicate your intentions to other vehicles on the road. That means knowing how to signal turns and braking. A left arm pointed straight out, parallel to the ground, indicates a left turn. A right arm pointed straight out, parallel to the ground, indicates a right turn. A left arm pointed at the ground, held at a 90 degree angle from the elbow indicates braking.