Bicycling is a fun, healthful way to enjoy the outdoors. When certain precautions are ignored, however, cyclists risk their well-being. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 500,000 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for bicycle-related injuries. You can help avoid injury by following some simple guidelines.

  Before heading out, make sure you and your bike are outfitted for comfort and safety. The following steps may help:

• Wear a bicycle helmet. It can reduce your risk of head injury by 85%.*
• Adjust your bicycle so that it fits you. You should be able to stand over the top tube of your bike with both feet flat on the ground.
• Do a maintenance check. Make sure wheels are straight and secured. Handlebars should fit tightly in place and turn easily. Adjust brakes to stop quickly.
• Be seen. Wear brightly colored clothes that make you easily visible. If you ride at night, equip your bike with reflectors and front and rear lights. Wear reflective clothing and material, especially on your ankles, wrists, back and helmet. 

  Taking precautions on the road can also help keep you safe. Follow these tips to stay out of harm's way:

• Ride with traffic. Bicycles are considered vehicles, so you must obey all traffic signs and laws.
• Stay alert. Watch for objects in your path that could cause you to fall, such as rocks and potholes.
• Avoid riding at night. If you must ride when it's dark, try to stay in well-lit areas that you are familiar with.
• Check carefully for traffic. Look both ways before entering a driveway or street. Over 70% of bicycle accidents involving cars occur in these areas.**

  By maintaining your bike's performance, dressing appropriately and riding with caution, you can help ensure a safe, fun ride.