Bicycle Safety and Security
All those using bicycles on campus are encouraged to participate in the bicycle registration program described in the Crime Prevention section of this handbook. Other ways to ensure the safe use and protection of your bicycle are as follows
- Wear a bicycle helmet at all times while riding your bike.
- Make sure your bicycle brakes are in working order.
- Use a bicycle light when riding at night.
- Always ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic. Ride on roads and not sidewalks whenever possible.
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Pay attention to your surroundings: warn pedestrians or fellow riders when you are passing them with statements like “On Your Right!” You should also warn motor vehicle drivers if they are placing you in danger with their driving.
- Take extra care when passing parking lot exits or biking through a parking lot.
- Invest in a strong bicycle lock or strong padlock and chain. Chains should be casehardened steel with links of at least 5/8 inch in diameter.
- Always lock your bike. Optimally, bikes should be locked around the frame and through both wheels and secured to a bicycle rack.
- Try not to lock your bike “free standing”. A thief can easily walk away with a bike and remove the lock.
- Whenever possible, keep your bicycle inside. Most residence halls have designated “bike rooms”.
- If you leave your bicycle outside, choose a well lighted and heavily traveled location.
- Find out if your bicycle is covered by your parent’s insurance policy. If not, it would be advisable to insure it.
- If left unattended or unlocked, a bicycle might be removed by the Department of Public Safety. Abandoned bicycles are taken to Fletcher Barn Storage for safekeeping by Public Safety officers. If you are concerned that members of the Department of Public Safety may have removed your bicycle, please contact the department to ascertain if your bicycle may be secured in Fletcher Barn storage
