Use common sense when riding bikes on base Published May 14, 2007 By 2d Bomb Wing Safety BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Bicycling is a great way to get around Barksdale whether it be for business or pleasure. However, there are some inherent risks to operating a bike on the streets. To help you get the most out of your rides, in the safest manner possible, here are some tips to follow: Ride right -- Ride as close to the right side of roadways as practical and be careful while passing a non-moving vehicle or one that is traveling in the same direction. Helmets a must -- Always wear a safety helmet. Use a light -- Bicycles operated during hours of darkness or reduced visibility must be equipped with operating safety lights. White lights must be visible on the front from a distance of at least 500 feet. A red reflector must be on the rear of the bicycle and should be visible within 600 feet. A red bicycle lamp may be used in addition to the red reflector. Reflective vests -- All bicycle riders on streets or roadways must wear a brightly colored or contrasting vest or jacket as an outer garment during the day and a reflective upper garment during the night. The outer upper garment will be clearly visible and not covered. Headphones -- The wearing of a headset or earphones while operating a bicycle is prohibited.