Law enforcement agencies have long realized the advantages of bike patrols – the ability to access areas like parks and trail systems and move through a large crowd are just a couple of the benefits. And the same holds true for bike-based EMS teams. If your community holds special events with large gatherings of people – think concerts, art festivals, etc. – it can be a challenge to respond rapidly into the middle of the group. A bike-based paramedic or EMT can quickly access the patient, assess them and start critical initial treatments. This can happen while a plan is enacted to either move the patient out of the area or to get an ambulance to the patient’s location for transport.
If you’re already a cyclist, the transition can be easy when starting in bike EMS. However, for many providers, riding a bike for extended periods may be a new experience, or one they have not had for many years. The following pieces of equipment can make the transition easier, and help answer questions as you start your shift as a bike paramedic or EMT.
Bike helmet
Helmet selection might be an agency decision, but if you can choose your own, there are a few things to look for. Choose a helmet that has adequate ventilation and is low profile enough to allow for good visibility and head movement. A helmet with Mips technology will help reduce the impact of rotational impacts in the event of a fall. Rotational impacts may cause more severe injuries, so Mips is designed specifically to absorb those forces. The Giro Fixture II MIPS Helmet is a great choice, offering lightweight, one-handed adjustment for fit, as well as a visor.
Bike gloves
A good pair of cycling gloves can be an important part of your gear. They can improve grip, thereby keeping your arms more comfortable as you will not have to grip the handlebars as hard. They can also help cushion your ride and keep your wrists happy. These gloves from Pearl Izumi feature ripstop fabric, finger grip and touchscreen compatibility.
Backpack for hydration and equipment
The ability to carry some EMS supplies is critical in prehospital care. By carrying the equipment on a backpack like this one from Conterra, the equipment is with you all the time and can be easier than using a pannier bag on the bike itself. Plus, the pack can be laid open for easy access to equipment. Additionally, it features a hydration bladder to quick access to water. While you can mount a bike bottle carrier to almost any bike, carrying some water with you in a pack will ensure you can stay hydrated even if you are away from your bike.
Bike shoes
Your shoe choice can have a big impact on how efficient and secure you feel on the bike. You want a shoe that will grip pedals, and prevent your feet from slipping, but will still act like a normal shoe when you are off the bike. Many mountain bike shoes will fit the bill, but the adidas Five Ten Impact Pro shoes are a great choice for EMS teams. A sticky sole combined with a traditional lace-up shoe allows you to ride with confidence and comply with uniform footwear requirements.
Bike seat
If you share a bike with other EMTs or medics, one element that’s easy to customize is the seat or saddle. You can purchase a seat that fits you, along with a seat post, and easily swap it between bikes. Look for a comfortable seat that’s not so bulky that it makes it hard to get on and off the bike. If you are having difficulty finding a good option, enlisting the help of someone at a local bike shop who can help with fit can be a game changer. Many times, it’s not the seat but how to adjust it that can be the issue. The WTB Speed saddle is a medium-width seat, with pressure-relieving cutouts to increase comfort for long days on the bike. The microfiber and soft shell cover will make sure you stay put while remaining comfortable. The seat can be adjusted forward or back as well to dial in fit for various riders.
Sunglasses
A pair of cycling sunglasses should protect you from both sunny days, and debris that might end up in your eyes while riding. Look for a polycarbonate lens with wrap-around protection. Designed to stay put, these sunglasses from Smith allow you to swap lenses to deal with different light conditions. The ChromaPop lens technology helps you see details, contrast and natural colors. The larger size is designed with cycling in mind.
Shorts
Your agency may already have a uniform short, but if not, look for a solid pair of EMS shorts like the 5.11 Taclite EMS Shorts. These shorts will allow you to stay cool and move, while also giving you a place for basic EMS equipment like sears, etc. Bike-specific shorts could be a good option too, as they can even include some internal padding to make the ride more comfortable but may not have the pocket options available.
Cycling can also be a great way to increase fitness without the impacts of running. You can vary load easily by choosing your type of riding and route, giving you a lower-impact way to improve cardiac fitness and build muscle. The more time you spend on a bike, either on duty or off duty, will pay dividends in your fitness, and you might have some fun as well!
