Safety tips
- Be visible. Use lights, reflectors and wear reflective material
- Be predictable. Signal your intentions, ride with traffic and obey all road signals
- Always have room to manoeuver. Don't squeeze between curbs and other vehicles
- Obey traffic laws and stay close to the right edge of the road wherever possible
Bike helmets
Children and youth
- By law, every cyclist under age 18 must wear an approved helmet.
Riders under 16 years old: a parent or guardian must make sure their child wears a helmet.
Adults
- Helmets are not compulsory for adults over 18; but a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of permanent injury or death if you fall or collide. It is strongly recommended that all riders wear helmets.
Types of helmets
The best helmets:
- are made to meet strict safety standards
- fit properly when worn correctly
Snap 'N Save
Even though we tend to see an increase in bike thefts throughout the summer months, it’s a crime that can occur year round.
Bike thefts tend to be a crime of opportunity. In some instances, bikes are taken after they have been secured and others were stolen while they have been left unattended. Even if you run inside for a second- secure your bike. Don’t leave it unattended on the front lawn, porch or open garage/shed as thieves can easily access it.
It's not always possible to prevent a bike theft, but in the event that your bike is stolen, we encourage you to have the proper documentation.
Police encourage residents to use the "Snap 'N Save" program:
- Take a photo with your bike
- Take a photo of the bike’s serial number
If police locate a suspected stolen bicycle, this process will help officers identify who the bike may belong to, and return it to the rightful owner.
Other safety tips to consider:
- Always lock your bike to a solid object
- Make sure that your lock cannot be cut
- Lock your bike in a well-lit area with high foot traffic
- Bring your bike in at night. If you are storing it in a garage or shed, ensure that it is closed and secure.
If you become of victim of a stolen bicycle, report the incident to police either online on our Online Reporting page or by calling 519-570-9777.
Resources
Ontario Ministry of Transportation Cycling Page
Region of Waterloo Cycling page
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