Important Bicycle Safety Message

From Chris Santiago, Campus Safety:

The Keene State College Community has seen a significant increase in bicycle usage this Fall. This is an extremely good thing, but it creates some issues for us as a community. There have been announcements through various mediums asking community members to please secure bicycles to bicycle racks around campus rather than to trees, light poles, and handrails. The Department of Campus Safety would like to reinforce that message - this will keep our campus both beautiful and safe.

The increase bicycle usage has created other issues as well. Since First Year Orientation on August 26, Campus Safety has taken six bicycle theft reports and other reports of bicycle vandalism. We encourage you to leave your bicycles in well-lit and high-travelled areas, to use the bicycle racks, and, most importantly, to secure your bicycle with a good lock. In addition, City of Keene ordinances require all bicycle owners to register their bicycles (stop by the Department of Campus Safety or the Keene Police Department to do so).

Here are some bicycle safety tips:

• Safety first: Safety equipment begins with the helmet. Wearing an approved helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by up to 85% in the event of an accident. In addition, wear brightly colored or reflective clothing so you can be seen during the early morning and evening hours. You should avoid riding your bicycle at night.
• Keep your bicycle in good shape: Make sure all parts are in good repair, checking your brakes, tires, and gears often. Learn the basics so that you can practice routine maintenance. Be sure your bicycle is equipped with reflectors and lights.
• Follow traffic laws: Bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists should obey the same traffic laws as motorists. Travel on the right side of the road and avoid riding on sidewalks.
• Check other routes: Sometimes the main road may not be the safest way to travel by bicycle. Look into alternate routes with less motor vehicle traffic and better road conditions.
• Find the correct fit: The most important factor in bicycling is finding a bicycle that fits you properly. You should be able to stand just over the top bar of the bicycle with your feet flat on the ground.