Cyclists who ride after dark without lights could get hit by a car, a fine or a free gift this week.
Police have been shining a light on cyclists lately, urging them to ''be bright'' after dark.
Senior Sergeant Tania Baron, of Dunedin, said some motorists had difficulty seeing cyclists even during daylight hours, and they were particularly vulnerable after dark.
''Wearing `hi vis' clothes and [having] good working lights on your bike is going to make it safer for you,'' she said.
There is a $55 fine for not having front and rear lights on a bike after dark but the focus this week is on education.
Snr Sgt Baron said daylight saving had just finished so a lot of people were suddenly finding it was darker much earlier than they were used to.
Cycle safety organisation Bike Wise was providing some free gear for unsafe cyclists, including lights and reflectorised accessories such as backpack covers, helmet stickers, slap bands and bells.
Snr Sgt Baron said she stopped a man last week who was riding in the dark without a light.
''I got him to come along to the South Dunedin Police Station, where we were based, and gave him [a light]. He was as happy as happy - he could not believe it.''
The Dunedin Be Bright education campaign finishes tomorrow but the focus on cycle safety after dark continues all month.
