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Hacks for Bicycle and Other Alt Vehicle Service Delivery

Using bikes, carts, or other alternative vehicles for outreach offers flexibility, low costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. While the core principles remain the same as other forms of mobile harm reduction, there are a few extra considerations to keep things rolling smoothly.

  • Make sure the bags and/or trailers are packed leaving enough time for transiting to your locations.
  • Make sure to carry basic bike tools, like a multitool and patch kit, in case there is a problem—nothing is more frustrating than desperately needing them and not having them.
  • Invest in good raingear and sturdy tarps—outreach stops for nothing!
  • Create and maintain internal area maps of participant location.

Featured Hacks

These featured hacks highlight creative, practical solutions from harm reduction leaders on the ground. From DIY tools to clever workarounds, each one reflects the ingenuity, care, and real-world experience that keeps this movement alive. 

One of the main goals of active listening with an agitated person is reaching affirmation and accord. You are looking to try and find ways to agree with the person who is agitated. Even if you don’t entirely agree with the person, try to find at least a small way in which they may be right, or in which you can be on the same page, or team, with them.
When someone is agitated or in distress, how we carry ourselves can make a huge difference. Non-verbal cues—like posture, breathing, and personal space—can either calm a situation or escalate it further. The following tips offer guidance on using body language to reduce tension, show respect, and create a safer, more grounded interaction.