BIKE riding is a lot of fun, but accidents do happen. Many children make their way to school riding a bike, so lets refresh what we know about staying safe on two wheels:
Wear a helmet at all times and ensure it fits properly and is worn correctly so it will protect the face, head, and brain in the case of an accident.
Use bike lanes wherever possible, and if riding on pathways, keep to the left and use a bell to signal others. Remember to always give way to pedestrians and to get off your bike and walk across busy intersections, using crossings wherever possible.
Check both ways and do not rush waiting to cross a road. Try using all your senses. Can you hear anything approaching?
Do not ride too close to parked cars. Doors can open suddenly.
Bike riders must obey road rules just like cars. Stop at stop signs, obey traffic signals, and travel in the same direction as the traffic.
Always ride with two hands on the handlebars, and ride in single file, rather than a big group if travelling with friends.
Parents and carers should ensure they ride as much as possible with their children on the road, to let them practice their skills. This summer period between holidays and the school term are a great opportunity to put safety into practice and teach critical skills and experience before the bell rings. Riding together around the lake or to run errands such as picking up your weekly Adviser or milk will serve another purpose down the track when they are finally ready to ride to school on their own.
