>> Safe Summer Activities (06/2007)
Behind the Badge: A Message from Sheriff Ted Mink
Each summer, thousands of residents take advantage of all the outdoor adventures the Rocky Mountains have to offer. Whether you wander near or far, here are some safety tips to remember.
Bicycling
Cyclists are everywhere in the summer, training on the steep and winding roads in the foothills, or cruising down residential streets. Cyclists and motorists can - and do - peacefully coexist. To ensure their encounters are safe ones, cyclists must obey the following rules of the road:
Ride on the right – never ride against traffic
Ride on a paved shoulder when one is available
Obey traffic laws, signs and signals. This includes stopping at stop lights and stop signs.
Use a headlight, taillight and reflectors at night
Ride single file (especially important on winding canyon roads)
The aforementioned are Colorado state laws and, if broken, could result in a summons and fine. Protect yourself against injury and accidents by riding defensively, and always wear a helmet.
Motorists, we urge you to exercise caution and patience, and share the road with cyclists.
Rivers & Creeks
In June 2007, a river rafter drowned in Clear Creek outside Golden. Local rivers and creeks can be extremely dangerous and have taken many lives over the years. Currents are so fast, especially during the spring runoff season, that they can easily knock people off their feet and sweep them down the river.
When using local creeks and rivers for recreational purposes, take all necessary safety precautions. Never swim or innertube without a life vest, and keep young children and dogs away from the banks of a rushing creek.
Hiking
In June, the Alpine Rescue Team and other emergency responders rescued a Kansas man from a high point in Clear Creek Canyon. He had not acted irresponsibly, but had sprained his ankle during his hike and was unable to move fast enough to make it back down before dark. By the time rescue crews reached him, he was hypothermic.
Accidents can happen to anyone, so prepare yourself for the unknown. Dress in layers and appropriate footwear. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back. Bring a daypack with food, water, and other essentials. Check the weather report and remember that Colorado weather can turn on a dime.
Fireworks
As July 4 approaches, the sound of fireworks becomes more frequent. Some fireworks are legal in Colorado, but most are not. Familiarize yourself with fireworks laws and safety measures as the holiday approaches. A good rule of thumb: anything that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal in Colorado. To learn more about fireworks, please visit the Sheriff's Office Web site here.
The Sheriff's Office encourages residents to leave the fireworks to the professionals and attend a public fireworks display. Foothills Parks and Recreation is hosting "Red, White and You" on July 3 at Clement Park in south Jefferson County. Learn more at www.ifoothills.org.
Behind the Badge Archive
Last Modified:
May 20, 2009 04:27 PM
