Cycle safe training for adults launched by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service
Cyclists are being encouraged to sign-up for a free training session, designed to build confidence and improve safety awareness, particularly on the approach to roundabouts and at busy junctions.
The two hour ‘adults cycling with confidence’ training can be booked by emailing:
roadsafety.education@Oxfordshire.gov.uk
The session is practical and participants should come with their bike, safety helmet, and appropriate clothing.
The next sessions in January and early March are now fully both booked. However people who are interested in future sessions can email RoadSafety.Education@Oxfordshire.gov.uk.
Andy Ford, from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Cycling is a great way to exercise and an environmentally friendly form of transport. However, it’s important that anyone using their bike is familiar with the Highway Code and the safety critical dos and don’ts, particularly on busy main roads and at junctions.”
Safety advice is also available on Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s website:
- Cycle at least half a metre from the kerb to avoid drains and gutters.
- Never pass nearside between traffic and the pavement especially close to junctions, particularly when there are large vehicles where the driver may not have seen you in their wing mirrors.
- Don’t ride on the pavement, except where it is designated as a cycle path. Where this is provided, moderate your speed and take care when passing pedestrians and give way at junctions.
- If a road junction is busy, do not feel you have to continue cycling. You can always get off, push your bike, or walk on the pavement.
- Don't weave in and out of traffic or change direction suddenly without signalling.
- Give pedestrians priority when necessary.
- Use your bell to inform other road users of your presence. Fit a bell if your bicycle is not fitted with one.
- If you are not confident cycling in moving traffic you may want to consider further cycle training.
- Wear a cycle helmet, high-visibility clothing or accessories.
Thank you
We received some very positive feedback from cyclists who attended our ‘adults cycling with confidence’ training sessions:
“Thank you very much to all the instructors. Lots of very useful advice and practice. Thank you very much especially to the instructor who accompanied me back to work, all her explanations and demonstrations were very useful.”
“I would highly recommend this course to others like me who are nervous about and unused to cycling in traffic.”
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