Cycling is a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to get around—but it’s important to stay safe on the road and protect your bike from theft. Whether you're a daily commuter or a weekend rider, following a few key safety tips can reduce your risk of injury and help keep your bike secure.
Safety tips
- Be visible. Use lights, reflectors, and wear reflective materials.
- Be predictable. Signal your intentions, ride with traffic, and obey all road signals.
- Always have room to maneuver – don’t squeeze between vehicles and curbs.
- Obey traffic laws and stay close to the right edge of the road wherever possible.
Bike helmets
By law, every cyclist under age 18 must wear a bike helmet.
While helmets are not legally required for adults over 18 years old, they are highly recommended. A helmet can greatly reduce the risk of permanent injury or death during a collision or fall.
The best helmet is one that fits properly when worn correctly, and has been manufactured to meet the safety standards.
For more information on bike safety, visit Ontario Ministry of Transportation Cycling or Region of Waterloo Cycling.
Bike theft prevention
Bike theft is a crime that occurs year-round, but is most common during the summer months. To help prevent bike theft, consider these safety tips:
- Do not leave your bike unattended on a front lawn, porch, or open garage/shed.
- Always lock your bike to a solid object.
- Make sure your lock cannot be cut.
- When locking your bike in public, lock it in a well-lit area with high-foot traffic.
If your bike is stolen, having proper documentation can help officers identify and return your bike. A photo with your bike, and a photo of the bike’s serial number helps us identify proof of ownership.
To report bike theft, report online or call us at 519-570-9777.