Bicycling

rescue or medical assistance in remote areas, searches for people who are missing or overdue, disaster weather operations, technical rescue and recovery, and more. There is never a charge for this service, year-round, 24 hours a day. This non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation is funded solely through generous public donations and grants. In case of an outdoor emergency, call 911 and dispatchers will activate appropriate resources. Twelve essentials for outdoor activities 1. Appropriate footwear 2. Map/Compass/GPS 3. Water 4. Food 5. Rain Gear 6. Safety Gear: headlamp, fire starter, and whistle 7. First Aid Kit / multi- tool 8. Sun protection 9. Shelter 10. Take a friend and tell another friend your plan 11. Cellphone and charger

Source: Bicycling Colorado Springs An extensive network of on-street bicycle lanes, urban bicycle trails, and unpaved mountain bike trails are available to bicyclists in the region. This network of trails, lanes, and routes is designed to interconnect for a variety of riding options. Bicycle routes, marked by signs, are streets with less traffic and lower speed limits which makes them conducive to bicycle travel.

Bicycle safety tips

• Always wear a helmet. • Be sure the bicycle is the right size. • Be sure your bicycle is in good condition and has the right safety accessories. ▪ In the city of Colorado Springs the law requires that each bicycle have a white front reflector, two-side wheel reflectors, and a headlight visible for 500 feet. ▪ Each bicycle should have a bell or horn to alert pedestrians and other riders. • Always follow basic safety rules. ▪ Know and obey traffic laws and signs. ▪ Ride, single file, the same direction as traffic. ▪ Stop and look both ways before entering traffic. ▪ Use hand signals. ▪ Watch all parked cars or cars pulling out of driveways and alleys. ▪ Walk the bicycle across busy intersections. • Wear bright-colored (white, florescent) clothing to increase your visibility. Children should also wear retro-reflective clothing or material, especially on their ankles, wrists, back, and helmet.

Helmets

• Make sure the helmet meets safety standards.

Look for a sticker or other indication that the helmet meets the CPSC, ANSI,

SNELL or ASTM standard. • Buy the smallest size that fits comfortably; use the sizing pads to fine-tune the fit. • A good-fitting helmet should be snug, but not so tight that it is uncomfortable. • A properly fitting helmet should touch your head at the crown, sides, front, and back. • The helmet should set squarely on top of the head in a level position and cover the top of the forehead extending down to about an inch above the eyebrows. • Adjust the straps according to the manufacturer’s instructions. With the chinstrap buckled, the helmet should not move when you shake your head or push from sides, front or back. • Allow your child to help pick out his or her helmet.

Children are more likely to wear the helmet if they have helped to select it. • Replace your helmet every three to five years.