Nurse
By Lori Robinson
March 26, 2010
Spring into Safety!
Spring has sprung and outdoor play is much needed after that long winter! What is more perfect than a spring bike ride? Sometimes all kids need a reminder for bike safety, and spring is the best time to do it when you are pulling the bikes out for another season of fun! In addition to basic maintenance like chain and tire checks, there are other steps to take to stay safe while bike riding. Every year about 300,000 kids go to the emergency room because of bike injuries. Some of these are so serious children die or are permanently injured. Here area few things to think about to keep kids and adults, too, safe this season.
Wear a bike Helmet!
Bike helmets are the #1 safety measure to prevent head injuries for bike riders both young and old. That’s right, Mom and Dad, you should be wearing them, too! After all, how can you expect your child to do something you won’t do yourself? Make bike helmets a rule every time your family rides. That way kids get used to it, and it’s never forgotten. Bike helmets should fit properly and be worn the right way. It should be worn level and cover your forehead, not tipped back. Straps should always be fastened and snug enough that you can’t pull or twist the helmet on your head.
- Be Seen, Be Safe!
Wearing bright clothes and putting reflectors on your bike can also help you stay safe If you are seen, you are less likely to be hit by a car. You’ll also want to make sure that nothing will get caught in the bike chain such as loose pant legs, backpack straps or shoelaces. Wear sneakers when you bike. They are the best shoes for gripping the pedals. Avoid wearing headphones because the music can distract you from noises and dangers around you. Avoid biking after dark unless your bike has a flashing light that helps motorists see you.
- Where to Ride
Make family rules that clearly state how far children are to go without an adult and if they are to ride on the sidewalk or the street. Kids younger than 10 should avoid the street if possible. No matter where you ride, you need to keep an eye out for vehicles. If crossing a busy road or highway, it’s best to walk your bike across.
- Rules of the Road
If children are allowed to ride in the street it is important to teach them simple road rules to keep them safe.
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- Always stop and check traffic in both directions when leaving a driveway, alley or curb.
- Cross at intersections.
- Ride on the right-hand side of the street so that you travel in the same direction as cars do. Never ride against traffic.
- Don’t ride close to parked cars.
- Stop at all stop signs and obey street lights just as cars do.
- Ride single file on the street when biking with others.
Now that the weather is warmer I encourage all students to walk or bike to school. It will get their day off on the right track with much needed fresh air and exercise. Remember to follow safety rules and enjoy your spring!
Spring Walk To School Day
April 21, 2010 is Spring Walk or Bike To School Day. Remember that students should walk or bike to school that day if at all possible. A little fresh air in the morning might be all they need to have a great day!
