Bicycle Safety

The next time you are visiting your favorite shore point, you may want to consider going on a bicycle ride. There are many places that rent bicycles down the shore. Bike riding is not only great exercise, but it is also fun to cruise along the boardwalk or thru the town enjoying all the sites the area has to offer. Before you start your bike trip, to avoid any dangers, you will want to make sure to practice basic bicycle safety. Below are some tips and pointer to make your bike adventure both safe and fun.

• Before you get on the bike to begin your ride, make sure the tires have enough air in them. This will make your ride go smoothly and comfortably, as well as prevent a tire blowout. Besides, you don't want to get stuck anywhere with a flat tire. A tire with the right amount of air in it won't have a "bulging" look, nor should it look saggy on the bottom.
  
  
• Always remember to wear a helmet when you are riding a bike. This will protect your head if you happen to fall. You can buy these at any store that sells sporting goods such as a Walmart or Target. There are some really neat-looking helmets out now, and some are even aero-dynamically-designed to help your ride faster.
  
  
• It is very important to be aware of your surroundings, for your own safety as well as the safety of others. If you are riding in the street, make sure that you are obeying all signs that are posted. A helmet might not help you if you accidentally ride directly in front of a car, so you will want to be extra careful when riding near the street.
  
  
• If you are riding on the boardwalk, be sure to watch out for people who may dart out in front of you. You don't want to run anyone over. You might even want to invest in a little bicycle bell. This would serve as a warning to pedestrians who might not see you coming until it is too late. After all, it's not as if your bike is equipped with one of those "watch the tramcar please" speakers that alert people you are in the area.
  
  
• Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is another important precaution you will want to take when riding a bike. You don't want to come home from your vacation looking like a lobster! Sunburn can be very painful. Why suffer when you can easily prevent it with a little sunscreen?
  
  
• It's important to stay hydrated while you are out in the sun as well. You can either take a bottle of water with you, or stop at one of the many stores or refreshment stands the boardwalk or in the town.

By taking these few simple precautions your bike ride will be safe and very enjoyable!