A BIKE safety event could be rolled out in south and west Dorset after a popular first seminar in Bournemouth.

The Docbike Project, Dorset Police and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance teamed up to host the first ever Bikerdown! safety initiative event.

The free seminar was fully booked and included talks from Dr Ian Mew, a Dorset Police medical advisor and air ambulance trauma doctor and PC Chris Smith, A Dorset Police BikeSafe co-ordinator.

The pair educated riders on what to do the moment a motorcycle incident occurs including safely securing the scene, making sure an ambulance is called, treating a casualty and the controversial subject of how to safely remove a motorcycle helmet.

The event ended with a talk about the ‘science of being seen’ where PC Smith explored the effectiveness of Hi-Viz, how best to use it and other factors including ‘motion camouflage’, ‘looming’ and tips on how riders can best be seen without wearing bright fluorescent pink from head to toe.

Dr Ian Mew Said: “I’m really pleased our first event went really well, especially after all the hard work and planning from everyone involved. We have delivered potentially life-saving lessons to these students, giving them the confidence to step forward and make a real difference if the situation arises.”

PC Chris Smith said: “In the event of a motorcycle accident, the first person on scene is often a fellow biker. Our Bikerdown! seminars build upon the success of our Bikesafe courses, developed to reduce the casualty rates across Dorset’s roads. I’d like to personally thank everybody who attended as it’s people like them, who could help us save lives. That cannot be understated.”

Those who attended received a free first aid kit, designed to be stored on a motorcycle, thanks to ‘Bikerdown!’ sponsors Bournemouth Bikes. 

Matthew Brown, DocBike’s director of communications, said based on the success of the event, organisers will look for venues to host future seminars in south and west Dorset, if there is interest from bikers.

Two more events are planned for 2016 which take place on Tuesday, November 1 and Tuesday, December 13. These both will be held at the Safewise Centre in Bournemouth.