Because it's getting to be that time of year, and because this thread has been around long enough that some people have forgotten how it works... or, worse yet, think that free tow service is something they're entitled to by virtue of simply being BARFers, here's an updated list of instructions for those asking for help in an emergency situation:
INSTRUCTIONS:
1)PM me... my cell phone sends a notification when I get a PM... THEN:
2) Post it up in General, and ask that someone who knows me TEXT ME- Texts get read, even if I'm at work, while a voicemail may get missed. Be sure to include your general location (Hiway 9 near Boulder Creek, Hiway 1 near Tomales, etc). By posting up in General, it also gives every BARFer who sees the thread the opportunity to jump in and help who may not even be on the Volunteer list, which could be a good (and fast!) thing if I'm out riding!
3) As extra coverage, you can also post up in this thread- I'm subscribed to it, so I get notifications when there's a new post (as do some of the other Roadside Angels! )
EDIT #2: If you think you can fix the bike and ride it home, please update your post that you no longer need help! And remember- this is for emergencies only, when you're stranded, and have no other options! This is NOT for hauling your bike from your house to a shop because it won't start!
EDIT #3: PLEASE INCLUDE CONTACT INFORMATION (phone #), and your FINAL DESTINATION- and be sure to go back later and edit out your number. But being able to get in contact with you will help me figure out where you are to get someone as close to you (and where you need to be) as possible out to help, and let you know someone's on the way (as well as an ETA), and allow you to let me (or the volunteer) know if you no longer need assistance.
EDIT #4: If you don't have a smartphone with internet access, please call a friend/family member, and have them post up for you. If they don't have a BARF account, have them log on for you on your account, and post up that way.
EDIT #5: YOU ARE EXPECTED TO REIMBURSE MY VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR COSTS IN GETTING OUT TO YOU, AND GETTING YOU WHERE YOU NEED TO GO. I cannot believe I need to tell people this, but it has happened enough in the last year that it's becoming an issue. My Volunteers are donating their TIME... this should not cost them money, as well.