What is a Bike Patrol and why would we want
one? A Bike Patrol Unit is a valuable resource,
allowing access to areas not previously accessible by the conventional police
cruiser. Bike patrol officers find that they can go virtually anywhere. The
bicycle patrol unit also increases communication between our officers and
the citizens they encounter during their patrol.
Do they reduce crime?
They are often quite effective. The bike patrol units
have had positive impacts on parks, playgrounds and other areas, allowing
citizens to utilize these areas more safely.
What does it take to start a Bike Patrol?
Creating and maintaining an effective police bike patrol
takes more than just officers and bikes. A police bike program involves providing
officers with the training they need for varying conditions of activity,
traffic, and weather; adding bike racks to vehicles; providing special lighting
equipment for night patrols; conducting repairs and routine maintenance on
the bike fleet; and purchasing special equipment and uniforms for the officers
to bike in all weather conditions. Plus, some really good bikes!
You may see the Bike Patrol in your neighborhood or at your business.
Remember, they are there also at night. You probably won't see them, and
neither will the prowlers and burglars they arrest until it's too late!
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