Local RCMP and businesses have partner together to launch brand new project that will begin in Fernie. The program was created in response to many community concerns relating to bike safety and is targeted to those who are abiding by the law and wearing their helmets.
Several Fernie businesses have already teamed up with the Police, and the program now coined as “Caught Being Safe” will offer those who are caught by Police following the rules of the road, a ballot to enter a draw for exciting prize packages. “The prize packages are developed for kids and adults, as children look up to adults as being positive role models. It is no secret that it takes a village to raise a child, and adults are where change can begin,” says Cpl. Erichsen, Elk Valley RCMP.
The primary focus of the program is to get people talking and wearing approved safety helmets while riding bikes. “In speaking with the community, it is clear that this is not the only issue involving bike riding,” says Cpl. Erichsen. “Motorized traffic needs to become more aware of the rights of bicyclists on the roadway and bicyclists need to become more sensitive to the fact that sidewalks were built for pedestrian traffic. It is an issue which requires the community as a whole to become more aware. If this can be done, a higher standard of community safety can be achieved in order to increase public safety,” he concludes.