Security

SILVER COMET TRAIL SAFETY TIPS

1 - Always let someone know when you will be on the Trail, when you can be expected back, and what mile markers you will be between.

2 - Always be aware of your surroundings, including what major streets you are near and who is on the Trail around you.

3 - Always report any suspicious persons or events on the Trail no matter how small they may seem.

4 - Walk in pairs if you can. Use the buddy system.

5 - Walk with a dog (pet) if you can.

6 - Bike with a rearview mirror.

7 - Carry a whistle, mace, knife, stun gun or the like when on the Trail.

8 - Take a self defense class if necessary. Ladies, remember the elbow is the strongest part of your body.

9 - Carry a cell phone with you on the Trail and remember to charge the battery.

10 - Do "NOT" wear headphones that cover both ears.

Remember, if you want to use the Trail but do not have someone who can join you, you can set up an event on www.meetup.com. Also, your local sheriff and police departments are here to help you. They are planning new ways to better serve and protect you. If you have any questions, just give them a call.

Alabama Sheriff Department:

Calhoun County - 256-236-6600

Cleburne County - 256-463-2277

Georgia Police/Sheriff Department:

Polk County Police - 770-748-7331

Cedartown Police - 770-748-4123

Rockmart Police - 770-684-6558

Paulding County Sheriff - 770-443-3010

Cobb County Sheriff - 770-499-4600

Any Emergency:

911

KEEPING YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE SAFE WHILE ENJOYING THE TRAIL IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING.

Be alert.

Watch where your going webassets/bike103.gif

and where you are.

Bike Safety Tips

Is bicycling a good exercise?

Yes, riding a bicycle is great exercise. It can help you get in shape and lose weight, and it can reduce the risk of health problems such as heart attacks. Bicycling puts less strain on your joints than jogging does, so bicycling is easier on your body.

What causes bicycle crashes?

Sometimes your mistakes cause crashes, and other times car drivers or loose gravel on the road are to blame. You are more likely to be seriously hurt if you run into a car or if you are riding fast. Children can be hurt while doing stunts on their bicycles. Getting your fingers or toes caught in the spokes or the pedals can also cause injuries.

What if I fall off my bike?

If you hit your head when you fall you should see a doctor, even if the injury seems minor.

What can I do to avoid injury?

The best way to protect your head and face is by wearing a helmet. Make sure your helmet meets government standards. All children and adults should wear helmets when they ride, even on short trips. This is now the law in some states.

Here are some more tips for avoiding injury while riding a bike:

· Wear sports sunglasses can stop dust and bugs from getting into your eyes.

· Wearing bright, reflective clothing when you ride can make it easier for drivers to see you.

· Use padded gloves to protect your hands.

· Wear padded shorts and use a comfortable seat to reduce buttock pain.

· Avoid riding at night.

· Always stay alert and look out for anything in your way.

Parents should teach children basic traffic rules and make sure they ride in safe places. Children younger than 10 years of age should not ride near traffic.

How can I be sure my bike is safe?

It is always a good idea to make sure that everything on your bicycle is working correctly. Get in the habit of checking that the brakes are working, and be sure there are no loose or broken parts on your bike. Reflectors and lights make you and your bicycle more visible to car drivers in the dark.

What about child-carrier seats?

If you ride with a child on your bicycle, you should use a special seat that fits behind the main seat. The child always needs to wear a helmet when riding with you. Also, make sure the bike has spoke guards to prevent the child's feet from getting caught in the spokes.

Click on the picture to enter the Georgia Govenors Office of Highway Safety WEB site.

GEORGIA BICYCLE LAW ENFORCEMENT

          POCKET GUIDE (PDF)

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If you have any questions, comments, suggestions or recommendations concerning Trail Security or know of rough or difficult places along the Trail please let us hear from you. You can reach us at security@silvercomet.org

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