**TIMMINS POLICE SERVICE NEWS RELEASE**

With the warmer weather, motorcycle season is about to begin. With this in mind, the Timmins Police Service is issuing a list of safety tips to enhance the safety of those motorists who take to the road on two wheels. Motorcycles are part of the motoring landscape in town and on the highway.

For all motorists:

1) Drive defensively: allowing for motorcycle traffic to maneuver is appreciated
2) Give your blind spots a little more attention before changing lanes
3) Don’t crowd the motorcycle in front of you especially at or nearing an intersection.
4) Be on the lookout for motorcycles and provide them with adequate space in traffic
5) Avoid distraction while driving: motorcyclists are counting on you to be alert at the wheel
6) Look twice before completing a turn at an intersection: motorcycles are often overlooked

For motorcyclists:

1) Always perform a pre-ride bike inspection, lights, signals, and tires merit your attention.
2) Be wary of intersections: sand left over from the winter season poses a traction threat.
3) Watch for road hazards: potholes and frost heave damage to pavement is real
4) Wear reflective gear: the idea is to be as conspicuous in traffic as possible
5) Where possible travel in groups so that your visibility increases
6) Ride well within your skill level: know your level of experience and respect it