Why would anyone steal cut-up rail ties?

CITY POLICE

NEWS RELEASES

************************* Thefts

- Seven to 20 steel rail ties that were cut into six-foot lengths were stolen from the Sault Multi Storage yard on Cathcart Street sometime during the past week.

- Vehicles in the 700 block of Wellington Street East, Albert Street East and in the 100 block of Queen Street East were broken into yesterday. Two purses left inside were reported stolen.

- A travel and a construction trailer in the 400 block of Third Line East were entered yesterday. A chainsaw was reported stolen. If anyone has any information regarding these crimes, please contact City Police at 949-6300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

************************* Cyclist/ motorist safety

With the great spring weather upon us, an early bicycle season has commenced.

The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service Police wishes to remind drivers and cyclists to be extra cautious and diligent when travelling about on our roadways.

Here are a few safety tips for bicycle season that we should all keep in mind when operating a vehicle or a bicycle.

To the cyclist

- Bet sure to obey the rules of the road. Cyclists often assume that traffic laws and rules of the road don’t apply to them; sometimes with tragic results. Bicycles are required to stop at all red lights, amber lights and stop signs and must signal for turns. Cyclists face the same penalties as motorists under the Highway Traffic Act.

- Road laws also require cyclists to keep to the right, and move to the right when overcome by a motor vehicle.

- Bicycles cannot be seen as clearly as a car, therefore, visibility is the key. Wearing bright, reflective clothing is important so that motorists can see you from a distance, especially at night.

- Keep yourself out of harm's way and anticipate movement of cars. Be aware that the motorist may not see you.

- All riders should familiarize themselves with hand signals. Check over your shoulder when turning. Signal well before you intend to turn and make eye contact with drivers around you.

- Signal well before you intend to turn and make eye contact with drivers around you.

- Never pass on the right as you approach an intersection, especially if the vehicle ahead of you is turning right.

- Ride single file when riding with others.

- Equipment is also key. The cost of bicycle safety is relatively inexpensive. A front and rear light is great for visibility. Mirrors, a tire pump, LED flashers and a small tool kit are great add-ons.

- An approved bicycle helmet is a must! Always wear a helmet. The law requires all cyclists under age 18 to wear an approved bicycle helmet. A properly-fitted helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries by 85 percent. Parents must ensure their children are equipped and wearing their helmets every time they ride a bicycle.

- Cyclist over 10 years of age shall not operate a bicycle on the sidewalk.

To the motorist

- Motorists are required to share the road with cyclists they come upon. Failure to do so can result in a fine.

- When passing a cyclist, and you plan on making a right turn ahead, be sure to anticipate the upcoming cyclist at all intersections.

- Cyclists are faster moving than pedestrians. Be aware of their anticipated path of travel.

- Drivers must be extra cautious in residential areas where children may be riding on sidewalks and crossing streets.

Both cyclists and motorists are asked to keep a watchful eye for each other. Following basic safety tips can improve safety for cyclists significantly.

A little extra caution can go along way to making our community safer.

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