Cycling on roads full of traffic due to petrol queues can be scary.
Here are 7 tips to ensure safe cycling!
1. Wear a fitted helmet
Make sure your helmet is strapped firmly to your head. Helmets are one of the most crucial pieces of equipment to ensure safe cycling.
Here is a detailed guide on bicycle accessories you need.
2. Wear tight & bright clothing
Make sure to wear clothing items with bright colours. Colours like white & black are hard to sight on the road. You can even try wearing a luminous traffic vest over your clothes.
Avoid wearing baggy, loose and saggy clothes to avoid your clothes from getting caught in the creases of your bicycle’s parts. Wear pants and t-shirts that fit you well and make it easier for you to move.
3. Avoid wearing earphones while cycling
Listening to your favourite playlist while cycling can be fun, but it isn’t safe. It compromises a cyclist’s awareness of cars and other warnings like shouting pedestrians, barking dogs, and opening car doors and can put you and others in danger.
4. Check the air in your tires & your brakes before leaving home
Make sure there is enough air pumped into your tires before you leave home to avoid any unnecessary surprises when you are cycling to your destination.
Ensure the brakes on your bicycle work effectively.
5. Check the weather forecast
Check the weather forecast on the weather app on your phone and stay updated to the changes in weather throughout the day.
On sunny days, ensure to pack some sunblock and a cap in your bag. On rainy days, pack a raincoat just in case. However, try your best to avoid cycling as the roads can be slippery and pouring rain makes it’s difficult to navigate roads.
6. Be aware of stray animals
Be aware of street dogs & cats on the road. Most animals may be fearful of the sound of vehicles and may find it difficult to find their way on busy roads.
7. Be conscious of parked cars and e-vehicles
Whether it is a petrol queue or vehicles parked outside a supermarket, be aware of cars that may be moving or even reversing. An indication of a moving car could be the sound of their engine or the flashing tail lights on the car. When it comes to e-vehicles however, their engines can be very silent and you may not hear them, be vigilant!
Be careful and cycle safe!
