Free Biker Down workshop for staying safe on the road this winter

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is encouraging people to sign up for a free life-saving Biker Down workshop to help them stay safe on the road this winter.

Firefighters are running a free workshop ahead of Road Safety Week on Tuesday 14 November at County Hall, Chichester.

The workshop will include training on scene management following a collision involving a motorbike, first aid, including helmet removal, and how to best be seen on the road – vital skills which could save a life.

Biker Down instructor, Richard Poole, said: “Biker Down training is useful for all road users, not just bikers. There’s always a chance that you could be the first one on the scene at a road traffic collision involving a motorbike, and the actions taken in the early moments are essential to minimise injuries.

“Our workshops have been very popular this year and the feedback from participants has been extremely positive. One of our past attendees told us that they would definitely feel more confident dealing with the scene of an RTC now after taking part in the course. Another told us that the course had a ‘real world’ feel rather than it being a dry lecture.

“Our main aim is to ensure that everyone leaves the course armed with the knowledge and confidence to know what to do in the event of an emergency.”

Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “Biker Down is a very worthwhile course, helping to keep everyone safe on our roads. This free workshop is a valuable opportunity to learn skills that could save someone’s life. If you haven’t had the chance to attend a session yet, I would encourage you to book a place at our next workshop.”

Further Biker Down workshops have also been scheduled for next year on the following dates:

• Shoreham Fire Station: 25 January, 6pm – 10pm
• County Hall Horsham: 22 February, 6pm – 10pm
• County Hall Chichester: 14 March, 6pm – 10pm

For more information on Biker Down workshops, please email FRSFirebike@westsussex.gov.uk.