Department of Public Safety Bicycle Patrol

In August of 1992 the Fairfield University Department of Public Safety implemented a Bike Patrol into it's existing operations. These bikes serve as a supplement to the marked cruisers and foot patrols already being used by the department. With the purchase of two "Cannondale" mountain bikes and appropriate uniforms, two assigned Officers began patrolling Fairfield University's 204 acres on bikes. Right from the first day the Bike Patrol began gaining attention. Articles and photos were printed in both University newspapers and a front page photo article appeared in the town newspaper "Fair Press". The Bike Patrol became an instant hit gaining overwhelming support from students and staff. The ability of Bike Patrol to promote public relations alone made it a success.

During the first year of patrol, the Bike Officers proved their worthiness and potential. Their versatile mobility over the sidewalks, paths, fields, and blocked roads on campus allowed Public Safety to increase it's presence and get Officers to incidents quickly. Bicycle headlights, reflective gear, and foul weather uniforms allowed Officers to patrol during all hours of the day and almost any type of weather. By carrying condensed medical kits and other duty equipment the Bike Officers are able to be self-sufficient. All of our Bike Officers are certified Emergency Medical Technicians and experienced Officers who are picked from an oral and agility testing process. They are also trained in bike tactics and nationally certified through the Law Enforcement Bicycle Association.

Bike Patrol proved to be an inexpensive and effective means of increasing the prsence of Public Safety. They have better response times than foot patrol, are more versatile, and attract more attention. The enthusiasm and support from the University community toward Officers on bikes has brought ever increasing numbers to Public Safety's Bike Patrol. What started out with two Officers and two bikes has grown continuously every year with our 6th bike and Patrol Officer being put on in the Fall of 1996. Since it's inception the Fairfield University Bike Patrol has trained along side Bike Patrol Officers from Danbury Police, New York City Housing Police, Darien Police, Yale University, Sacred Heart University Public Safety, Bridgeport University Security, and Southern Connecticut State University Police. We have also provided assistance in the creating of Bike Patrols at Columbia University, Scarsdale Police, Stamford Police, Western Connecticut University, and Weston Police. Probably our greatest honor came in spring of 1996 when our Bike Patrol team participated in the Special Olympics Torch Run and opening ceremonies for the games.

Anyone wishing for more information or assistance in launching a Bike Patrol Program is urged to inquire by contacting Todd A. Pelazza, Director of Public Safety.