While out and about last night I noticed a number of bike riders of all ages riding their bikes with no helmets or reflective clothing and despite the early dark nights with no lighting on their bikes.
This is dangerous to all road users but particularly the bike riders them selves as they need to be a visible as possible.
I have asked the Local Oscott Police Team to remind any cyclists they see without lights that for their own safety the need lights on their bikes.
If you have a child or friend who uses a bike after dark please give them a gentle reminder they to be seen at night.
TOP TIPS FOR CYCLING IN THE DARK
1. Visible upper body
To help drivers see you, go for a reflective/high vis garment that can be seen clearly from front and back. Why not try something that can go over your regular coat like a sash, high vis vest or a backpack cover?
2. Get creative with your bike lights
It’s a legal requirement to have white front and red rear lights and reflectors on your bike, and orange reflectors on your pedals. Lights should go on at dusk, and can be useful during the day too, especially when it’s a dull day.
3. Make your bike and helmet glow too
Get your bike and helmet involved in the reflective action. Try additional reflectors and lights on your spokes, to really make your wheels light up as they whizz round. Or go for some reflective stickers for your mudguards, panniers or the back of a child seat. And last but by no means least customise your helmet with a reflector too.
4. Stick to well-lit roads
Although lanes and canals are great for summer cycling, when darkness falls it’s hard to see and be seen without street lights. Stick to well-lit roads and paths when the sun goes down.
5. Keep an extra eye out for pedestrians
It can be hard to spot people on foot.
6. Make the bar or bike decision early on
If you know you will be having a few drinks on a night out, leave the bike at home and use public transport instead.
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