My bell broke today and I found out that the best way to call attention was to yell ”Pling!” because then everyone understood that I tried to sound like a bell. Shouting ”Excuse me” just seemed to trigger an instinct to reply ”Yes how can I help you, sir?”.

I have a squeeky-toy-thing mounted on my handlebars and tested it out against the rollerblading/jogging/walking masses along Chicago's lakeshore.

I didn't hit anyone and for the most part people got out of the way or off to the side with smiles and grins. :D

Of course, I am a BMF and not many people yell at me...

Lately Ive taken to a road-runner style "meep-meep".
Its friendlier than "oi", but more urgent than a whistle.
Children seem to like it as well.

Interestingly enough. I discovered it's illegal to drive on the highway in Wisconsin without a bell or other signal device (but no whistles or sirens, :P) I had to actually go to the library and look up the statutes cited in the bike laws handout the local police station gave me to find that out....

Oddly in the UK you only need a bell if you cycle in Northern Ireland.

Richard

And a flak jacket?

I just yell, On your left!!!!, I hope they get it.
Most of the idiots on the trail where I ride do not know the rules of the trail even though they are posted all over the place.

Why can't these people contain their kids and pets???

How's that going to help you against IRA bombs?

:D