2 Wheel safety in Cheshire

A national crusade to help keep all road users safe is being supported in Cheshire this month.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Cheshire Police are working together between June 10 and 16 to support and promote the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) 2 Wheel Operation.

This aims to educate all road users on the potential dangers and hazards facing two-wheel riders.

Both organisations will be out all week, hosting events and initiatives across the county to improve safety for the riders of bicycles and motorcycles.

Chief Inspector for Cheshire Constabulary's Roads and Crime unit, John Forshaw, said: "Unfortunately, we know that those who travel on a motorbike or a pedal cycle are more at risk of being involved in a serious or fatal collision.
"Officers, along with our partners, will be out during the week-of-action educating motorists and riders on the importance of looking out for each other to keep each other safe.
"Please be considerate when overtaking, take the time needed to look properly for other road users, particularly at junctions, and remember we all share the road."

Whatever people ride or drive, the two emergency services are encouraging everyone to be considerate and ensure their actions don’t put others at risk.

Ryan Swindells, Road Safety Manager at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Cyclists and motorcyclists feature disproportionately in road collisions. During the week we have plenty of activities to help promote safer behaviour amongst all road users.
“We urge every road user to be observant and courteous in sharing the road space with those who face a higher risk of injury.”  

The five main causes of serious injuries or deaths on the region’s roads are known as the Fatal Five. These include:

  • Careless driving

  • Drink and drug driving

  • Not wearing a seatbelt

  • Using a mobile phone

  • Speeding

Road users who commit one of the Fatal Five offences are far more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than those who do not.

Stopping any more deaths from occurring because of something unnecessary and totally avoidable is a top priority for both organisations.

Events taking place include:

  • Tuesday 11 June - Firefighters and police will be at J and S in Oakmere, Northwich speaking to bikers from 10am.

  • Wednesday 12 June - Free bike maintenance course at Congleton Fire Station from 7-9pm. If anyone is interested in taking part in this initiative, they should email ryan.swindells@cheshirefire.gov.uk

  • Saturday 15 June - Police will be out near the Cat and Fiddle in Macclesfield giving advice to road users from 10am.

  • Sunday 16 June - The week-long initiative ends with a Biker Down course at Frodsham Fire Station from 12 until 4pm. Space is limited but if anyone would like to attend then can book on by emailing bikerdown@cheshirefire.gov.uk