National Mountain Bike Patrol
The Broward County Mountain Bike Patrol is a branch of the International Mountain Bike Association's (IMBA) National Mountain Bike Patrol (NMBP) program, which organizes and supports volunteer bike patrols throughout the United States and around the world. Patrollers provide assistance to anyone, especially mountain bikers and hikers, by offering information, aid and assistance, provide directions, help with minor repairs, provide first aid and help with local search and rescue efforts.
Markham Park trails are patrolled by volunteers, they are not paid for their services. They are certified in First Aid/CPR and are prepared to handle emergencies and other situations that require special care. You will recognize them by their red jerseys. Don't be afraid to ask them questions or for assistance. Most are very skilled and know the trails inside and out. Check out IMBA's NMBP site. 
Mountain Bike Safety
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just getting started, mountain bike trail safety should be a priority. Safety starts with having the right skills and physical conditioning to handle the mountain bike trails you're riding. Always study a map of the trail before you go riding, know what challenges are coming and how long your trip might be. Don't go faster than you're comfortable riding, and don't get caught unprepared for a steep incline, tricky terrain or darkness.
When you know you're ready to hit the bike trails, check your equipment and safety gear. Make sure your bike and helmet are in good working condition and appropriate for the type of trail you're riding. Also, check the weather and determine if it will affect the trail. Be prepared both physically and mentally for any muddy, rainy or foggy conditions.
Don't forget your most important bike trail safety tool: your brain. You need to know how to maneuver the obstacles you'll encounter, and how to handle and repair your bike. You also need to know how to read your trail map, and how to use your compass and map to find your way. Finally, help keep the trail safe for others by letting those who maintain the trail and other riders know when conditions change.
Interested in joining the NMBP?
Contact a local NMBP Representative or regional instructor.
All work performed on the Markham Park trail system is performed by volunteers registered through Broward County and directed, controlled and supervised by Broward County. The Markham Park Trail Building Fund, Inc. does not work on the trails at Markham Park. The Markham Park Trail Building Fund raises money which, in turn, is made available to Broward County’s volunteers to purchase tools, materials and supplies which they use in performing work on the trails under the direction, supervision and control of Broward County. Rest assured, though, 100% of the money raised by the Markham Park Trail Building Fund goes directly to the volunteers and is used in building and maintaining the trails. Without fund raising, no money would be available to the volunteers to purchase tools, materials and supplies for their work on the trails.
