Biking done right: How to safely ride around campus
UD Public Safety shares tips for bike safety and security. Photo courtesy of Flyer News.
Tori Miller | News Editor
Public Safety’s top priority is keeping the campus community safe— this includes keeping student’s bikes safe as well.
In an Instagram post last week, Public Safety shared their top tips for securing bikes on campus, reminding students to familiarize themselves with UD’s bike safety policies.
Public Safety Community Engagement Officer, Nick Orrill highly encourages students to follow safety initiatives and utilize the bike registry. Precautions such as using a U-lock to lock bikes, wearing eye protection while riding and obeying traffic laws are crucial for safety while riding.
“The number one thing [regarding bike safety] is to get a U-lock.” Orrill said. “Cables and chains are easily defeated. A U-lock is a more substantial lock.”
Bikes should be connected to racks through the frame and at least one wheel. Locking bikes to fences, site furniture, handicap ramps, stair railings, signposts or trees on campus is prohibited by the university.
All bikes must be parked on bicycle racks and cannot be chained to hand-rails, posts, fences or other objects, according to Public Safety. Bikes that are operated or parked on the university campus by students, faculty or staff must be registered with the Public Safety.
Registration is free for everyone and gives UD police essential information to help identify a lost or stolen bike. Students can register their bikes on the Flyer Safe app under “Safety Resources” or online at the university website.
While there are plenty of outdoor storage places, students can also utilize indoor storage options. Bike storage is available for residents of Marycrest Complex, Stuart Hall and Founders Hall on the ground floors.
Another way to stay safe while biking on campus is articulated by avid cyclist and sophomore civil engineering major Tim Helfin. Since UD students’ primary form of transportation on campus is walking, Heflin makes sure to plan his routes before leaving for class.
“I must exercise extreme caution to avoid other students,” Heflin said. “It is important to understand the viable routes that avoid both the crowds and any obstacles.”
Biking is a great way to move around Dayton’s campus. Take precautions and follow Public Safety’s guidelines to keep your bike secure. To report a missing or stolen bike, contact Public Safety at 937-229-2121.
To register your bike, click here.
To report a claim, click here.
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