Oak Bay Fire Department

News Release
Date: March 9, 2015                                                        OBFD file # 2015-10

For Immediate Release:
Weekly Media Release for Monday, March 2, 2015 to Sunday, March 8, 2015.
Over the past week, Oak Bay Fire Department members responded to 28 calls for assistance.
These calls for assistance include:

15 – Medical First Responder Requests
8 – Commercial / Residential Alarm Activations
1 – Motor Vehicle Incidents
2 – Electrical Problem
1 – Gas Incident
1 – Smoke in a Structure

 A Kid's Guide To Bicycle Safety

Riding a bike is a fun way to get exercise and to spend time with family and friends. Children tend to ride their bicycles a lot, particularly during the warmer months. It's very important that all children are aware of different safety rules to ride by, so they can avoid injuries. By following some simple practices, you can have fun on your bike and still be safe.

Helmets should be worn at all times. A helmet can save lives, and should adhere to the proper safety guidelines. Some localities also require helmets to meet safety certifications, so be sure to know the laws where you live. When riding your bike, make sure you are riding in an area where motorists can clearly see you. Add reflectors to your bike so you can be seen at night and wear light-colored clothing so you're easily spotted. Always look both ways for cars coming your way, and never turn or cross the street without looking both ways and stopping, making sure no cars are coming. You should only go when it's completely clear of traffic and there is no danger of a car coming.

When you're riding your bike, be aware of the road conditions. Different objects in the road can pose a danger to your safety, such as potholes, manholes, railroad tracks, storm grates, wet leaves, rocks, or even cracks in the road. All of these can make it dangerous for riding, and might cause you to lose control of your bike. Be aware of the road ahead, and ride cautiously. It's also important to make sure the bike itself is proper for riding. Check to ensure that your bike fits your current height, weight, and age. Different bikes are made for different riders, so check to see if yours is a good fit. Always check the brakes on your bike before you head out for a ride. Tires should be inflated to proper levels as well. If you're riding as a pair or group, be sure to ride with the flow of traffic and ride in a line, one behind the other.

Getting out on your bike for a nice ride is a great deal of fun, but it can also be dangerous if you're not careful. By following these simple rules, you can help make sure you have a safe ride every time. Always remember to play it safe and to be aware of your surroundings. Wear the proper gear like a helmet and put reflectors on the bicycle. Just a few small changes can help to make sure you're safe on the road. Happy biking!