Cycling during the winter – COVID-19 update
Since some European countries are taking new precautions to contain the spread of COVID-19, we wrote a small article to help our community to keep riding their bikes. In Denmark for instance, our HQ is adhering to the suggestions of the government. We also armed our wonderful Shepherds network-wide with gloves and sanitisers. They are giving handle-bars of Donkey Bikes a good wipe down while they are out on the streets, to make cycling during this winter as safe as possible.
For safety and hygiene recommendations please scroll down.
Cycling during coronavirus spread – is it safe?
Yes, it is. If you keep to the hygienic regulations and recommendations, then it is one of the safest forms of transportation:
- Wear gloves. Wash your hands with soap before and after cycling (disinfectant also works on the go)
- Cough or sneeze in your elbow
- Keep away from other road users
Both the Danish government and the German Health Minister have recommended cycling as a lower-risk mode of transport to get to necessary appointments. Since the beginning of the pandemic, we took our responsibility to make sure that operations are running as usual. Regarding the evolution this winter 2021, we are monitoring the situation closely and we will keep all our riders updated. If you have any concerns or suggestions on how we can do even better, please do not hesitate to get in contact.
Updates on our cities and operations
In all the cities we are providing bikes and ebikes, we are running operations as usual, to make sure that essential travel is done as safely as possible during this infectious period.
Nevertheless, we suggest you to check out local and national authorities recommendations regarding the situation there. Some restrictions might apply.
Hygienic recommendations for cycling this winter
The following basic safety and hygiene measurements can go a very long way, and take only a few minutes a day. Take a look and work these into your everydays, whether you are cycling, scooting, driving a car, walking and even if you stay at home most of the time:
Wash hands
Use soap and wash your hands and wrists for a minimum of 20 seconds. If you need help with keeping time, one of our developers has put together a singalong guide (see at the bottom of this post) to get the recommended 20-40 seconds under the tap. Alternatively, you can sing Backstreet Boys songs, or this song while you wash your hands too.
Close and open the tap with your elbow while you are washing. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes and mouth with your hands.
Wear gloves
Keep your gloves on while you cycle, while you use your keys, while you open doors, when you pay and when you hold your phone. Wash your hands before putting on your gloves and similarly, wash your hands after taking them off.
Disinfect your phone and other items
Phones carry a lot of nasty bacteria and coronavirus can sit on them for up to 9 days. Clean your phone screen and the back of your phone every day with disinfectant wipes, as many times as you think is appropriate. Use sanitizer to clean your hands after using your phone. Take similar action with objects you touch often.
Keep distance
Avoid close contact with people and participating in big gatherings. When you can, keep a 2-meter distance from colleagues and friends. Do not visit your elderly relatives, call them instead. Avoid handshakes and hugs.
Help each other
Do you have an elderly neighbour or somebody in need of support? Ask if you can help them with their shopping, cooking, etc. Avoid personal contact, deliver goods by the door.
Take care of yourselves and look out for those around you that need help.
You can sing this song while you wash your hands
