safety plan + guidelines.
2025 safety plan.
The safety of our runners + riders is our number one priority. Please carefully read this entire safety plan so you are prepared in the event of an emergency. Please develop a plan and let us know if you need any assistance with your personal plan.
When in doubt, please err on the side of safety.
general safety requirements.
Helmets are required during the cycling event.
Participants are required to follow all traffic laws and rules of the road.
It is recommended that all participants wear high-visibility apparel.
Utilize hand signals when appropriate.
emergencies.
In case of a medical emergency, dial 911.
There are 911 emergency services along the entire route. Some locations will be services by rural volunteer emergency services. Most 911 Public Service Answering Points (PSAPS) have text-to-911 capability. If you have spotty cell service, the bandwidth needed for a telephone call is greater than an SMS or text message. If you are unable to make a call during an emergency, try texting 911.
Response times may be longer for emergency services to reach remote locations.
Please be prepared to effectively communicate the following information in case of a personal emergency or if another rider has an emergency:
If you come upon an injured rider needing medical assistance, please dial 911 and report the following to the dispatch operator: location, condition of injured rider, vitals signs if possible (pulse and breathing rate), rider name if known, number plate, and medical condition(s) or medication(s), if known.
clammy skin
dizziness
headache
muscle cramps
extreme thirst
excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
dehydration
fainting
nausea
vomiting
weakness
decreased urine output
age (or estimated)
date of birth
medical conditions
medications
callers full name + phone number
location
nature of the emergency
heat related illness.
core4 takes place in August so please come prepared for high temperatures and potentially high humidity. The threat of heat related illness is real. Those that have experienced a heat related illness are more susceptible to repeat deleterious effects of the heat and humidity. Please come prepared.
Symptoms of heat-related illness include:
If you experience these symptoms, remove yourself from the heat and get to a cool place such as an air-conditioned convenience store.
general tips for dealing with heat.
Drink plenty of fluids and take breaks as needed.
Bring plenty of extra water bottles and refill whenever an opportunity arises.
Consider drinking liquids containing electrolytes. Drinking 1 bottle of electrolytes per two bottles of water to stay properly hydrated.
Be aware of heat exposure, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Know the signs and symptoms and take appropriate action to mitigate the risks.
Dress appropriately for hot and humid weather.
Apply and reapply sunscreen! Most sunscreens need to be reapplied every three to four hours. Consider sun sleeves for your arms if unable to reapply sunscreen on a regular basis.
Pack some basic first aid supplies such as bandages, tweezers and Tylenol. NSAIDS are not recommended since those can be hard on renal function; especially when dehydrated.
Iowa weather can produce large and sometimes violent weather including thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes. In case of severe weather, please find shelter immediately. DO NOT ride during severe weather. Please always maintain situational awareness at all times.
inclement weather.
In the event of impending severe weather, the core4 team will watch the progress closely + keep runners + riders updated on changes in schedule, routes, etc. Watch your emails.
iowa severe weather info
tornado warning : a thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado is imminent. Take shelter in a basement or interior room + stay informed of forecast updates.
tornado watch : conditions are favorable for the development of thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes. Stay informed in case a warning is issued + know where to take shelter.
thunderstorm warning : a severe storm is happening or imminent. Take shelter immediately + stay informed of forecast updates.
thunderstorm watch : severe storms are possible in the near future. Stay tuned to forecast updates, monitor sky conditions, + know where to take shelter.
core4 reserves the right to modify, postpone, or cancel the event due to natural disasters or acts of God, including but not limited to severe weather, fire, flooding, or other emergencies that may pose a threat to participants, volunteers, or the public. The safety of all involved is our top priority. No refunds or deferrals will be issued in the event of cancellation due to these circumstances.
rules of the road.
Be kind always. core4 is for everyone.
Love your neighbor. Meet new friends that will last a lifetime. Help others. Protect your neighbor’s property and well-being as your own. Push yourself to the edge and overcome.
Safety first. Follow all laws of the road.
Yield to traffic.
Follow the course (that you uploaded to your computer). If you miss a turn, go back and return to where you went wrong.
If you need to pass on singletrack, kindly ask to pass "on your left, please.” After, say "Thank you, have a great day.” It’s not about you, it’s about everyone.
If someone asks to pass on the singletrack, kindly let them at the most appropriate time. Again, it’s not about you, it’s about everyone.
Smile the entire time so people know you're having the time of your life, because you are. Remember your why.
Let's go!