A not-for profit organization focused on promoting cycling across the province is reminding people of safety tips as the summer approaches.

Meghan Hollett, Chair of Ordinary Spokes, says the number of cyclists has skyrocketed in recent years and they’re already seeing an increase as the snow melts.

Although early in the season, they’ve already heard of instances where cyclists were struck by vehicles.

“The first sunny day we saw last week, we also saw a cyclist have to go to the hospital,” said Hollett. Both motorists and cyclists should make sure there is ample space for the two vehicles to share to help avoid such accidents.

Hollett stresses the use of wearing a well-fitted helmet and using hand signals to state their intentions to other drivers and pedestrians. She also recommends making sure your bicycle is up to par when it comes to maintenance.

They recommend using an ABC checklist: A for air—do the tires have enough air in them?; B for brakes—are the breaks in working order?; and C for chain and crank—are those parts moving as normal? The checklist should be completed to ensure necessary repairs are made and the bike is safe to ride.