Basic Bicycle Safety For Your Child
I can still remember the thrill of my first bike
. My dad surprised me with a green bike with training wheels. I was probably around three years old. I loved my little bike. At the time, we lived in Bellingham, Washington. Our house was in a typical neighborhood with sidewalks that were well used by all of the neighborhood kids. You would have thought the sidewalk would have been worn out as many times as I rode up and down that sidewalk. My mom and dad never showed signs of weariness watching me go up and down the sidewalk over and over, but looking back I am sure they did.
The big day came when my dad finally took those training wheels off. I wasn't even quite five years old when they came off. I couldn't have been prouder. I now had my first taste of independence.
Unlike now, there were no bicycle helmet requirements. If there were, my parents would have made sure I wore a helmet. I often see parents riding bikes without helmets while their kids have one. I often wonder what kind of a mixed message that kid is getting. Parents need a helmet as much as their child.
Even though I couldn't ride in the street until I was at least ten years old, my parents did a pretty good job of teaching me the rules of bicycle safety. They didn't have their own bikes, but they made sure I knew the rules. Basically the rules haven't changed a whole lot. There are a few more additions and they're always worth reviewing.
Bicycle Safety for kids riding on the road:
Helmets - Make sure your child wears a helmet! Even though I survived my childhood not wearing a helmet, doesn't mean it's not necessary now. Many head injuries are prevented by wearing a helmet. As a parent you need to set the example if you ride with your child. If your child complains because it's not comfortable, there are places you can have it checked to make sure it is the proper size.
Correct Size - Make sure their bike is the proper size. The seat height should allow a slight bend at the knee when leg is fully extended. Handlebar height should be at the same level as the seat.
Maintenance - Make sure the steering and brakes are working properly. A bike is not a toy. Keep the chain clean and oiled, make sure the tires are inflated properly, and there are no loose parts, especially focusing on the handlebars, brakes, and wheels.
Ride Defensively - Anticipating cars backing out of driveways, or pulling in front of you. Some streets have no stop sign or signal, so you must slow down, checking that all is clear and okay to proceed.
Bicycles should go in the same direction as the traffic flow, not against it. Ride in a straight line and use hand signals so drivers don't have to second guess what you are about to do. Riding defensively also means using both your eyes and ears. You want to be able to hear a car coming behind you. Listening to music with a headset and riding is not riding defensively. Be alert to opening car doors, potholes, large cracks, or railroad tracks and anything that might cause you to lose control. Always look before turning, and watch for left or right turning traffic. Yield to traffic and pedestrians. Wear clothes that make you appear more visible.
Because a bicycle is considered a vehicle, you are expected to obey all traffic laws. The road is a safe place if you teach your children to follow the rules. The rules are there for their protection, be sure they understand that.
Riding a bike is fun, and it is a great way to stay fit and get to where we need to go. Bicycling also helps develop self-confidence, good judgment, and lifelong skills. A parent's attitude to teaching bicycle safety will determine how responsible their children will become. Teach your child as if their life depends on these lessons and you will feel more confident as you watch your kids ride down the street.
by:Donna Randol
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