About Saint Michael's
Bicycle Patrol Unit
The Public Safety Bike Patrol was started in 1994 to increase the visibility and accessibility of officers in the campus community. Officers use mountain bikes to patrol all areas of campus that cannot be accessed by car. Bicycles increase the effectiveness of patrols and improve response times to requests for assistance on campus.
The bike patrol operates on a varied schedule: during daytime and early evening shifts, the patrol often replaces the use of the security cruiser for normal duties. Bike Officers patrol both the Main Campus and North Campus as would officers using a vehicle.
The bike patrol is staffed by full-time officers who receive certification in the 32 hour Police Mountain Bike Training Course. Officers are required to complete several 20-30 mile endurance rides in the Burlington area and are trained in techniques such as quick dismounts, rapid responses, physical confrontation and "takedowns" with use of a bike. The training also involves classroom instruction, discussion, and a final written and physical test.
