McMaster Security Services in partnership with Parking and Transit Services are working to make cycling on campus a safe and effective mode of transportation, through a Bicycle Safety Campaign launched recently.

The campaign will focus on educating cyclists and motorists on the rules of the road, and how to ride safely.

“On the McMaster campus, bikes are a major form of transportation,” says Cathy O'Donnell, sergeant of Crime Prevention & Campus Community Relations. “This is also very convenient since McMaster is a pedestrian-based campus. There are approximately 184 bike racks on campus for storing your bicycle with more to come. The campus ACT office promotes cycling on campus to assist in alleviating the parking crisis and because cycling is environmentally friendly.”

Bicycles are recognized as vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act. All traffic regulations that apply to motorists also apply to cyclists. Cyclists who fail to abide by these regulations face the same fines as motorists. For example, failing to stop at a stop sign off-campus is a $90 fine payable to the Province of Ontario. This same violation on campus would result in a fine of $25 with the fine payable to Parking and Transit Services. Under the Highway Traffic Act, stopping at a stop sign involves coming to a complete stop, meaning wheels need to stop moving.

“On the McMaster campus we also have other regulations to cyclists,” O'Donnell adds. “These regulations include the operation of bicycles on roadways or pathways. In all circumstances the pedestrians have the right away.”

Security Services also has regulations involving the storage of bicycles on campus. Bicycles must be locked to bicycle racks only. Bicycles found locked to or leaning against any other object will be subject to ticketing and/or impoundment. Bicycles are not permitted inside University buildings unless being taken directly to a designated and approved storage location.

Bicycle Safety Tips:

When locking your bicycle, use approved bicycle racks. Use two good quality bike locks, filling the lock as much as possible. This makes it difficult to get a tool inside to cut or manipulate the lock. It is also a good idea to use two different styles of locks.

A few years ago, Security Services started a program where they engraved the frames of bicycles with an identifiable number such as the owners' drivers license number. This has proven to be successful in returning found property to the owner after a theft. If interested in this free program, bring your bike to the Security Services office in the E.T. Clarke Center. Security will also be providing this service as part of its annual Bicycle Auction on Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside of the student center.

From Sept. 21-26 Security Service will be applying a zero tolerance approach to bicycle infractions. Hamilton Police will also be in the area enforcing bicycle regulations off of campus. Please know and understand these regulations.

Any questions or concerns about cycling on campus can be directed to:

ACT Office ext. 24772

Parking and Transit Services ext. 24232

Security Services ext. 24281

Security Crime Prevention ext. 26060