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Youth bicycle safety

(NORTH BAY, ON) – The nice weather is finally here and our children are back out on their bicycles. Parents should make a few simple safety checks of their child’s bike to ensure their child’s safety.

 (NORTH BAY, ON) – The nice weather is finally here and our children are back out on their bicycles.  Parents should make a few simple safety checks of their child’s bike to ensure their child’s safety.  The first check should be sizing the bicycle to the child.  Other equipment checks are:

·        The bicycle chain is tight

·        Brakes are working properly

·        Tires are inflated to recommended pressure

·        The bicycle is equipped with a working horn or bell

·        Pedals are secure and in good condition

·        Reflectors or reflective tape are used on their helmet, clothes and bicycle to make them more visible.  These are important to help drivers see your children at night

·        Proper footwear, such as running shoes, should be worn at all times when riding their bicycle. Shoe laces should be tied.  Flip-flops should be avoided.

·        Bicycles must be equipped with both a headlight and taillight for night riding.  Most motorists will notice blinking lights.  These are generally more effective.  Lights are important to see and to be seen

·        Ensure their helmet fits snug and covers the head.  Make sure that the edge of the helmet is positioned two fingers above the eyebrows to protect the forehead.  The straps should meet in a V shape just below the ears, and one finger should fit between the chin and the chinstrap.

Each year, children are seriously injured or killed in bicycle collisions and most are the result of head injuries.  It is important to wear a helmet whenever riding, and it’s also the law for those under the age of 18 years. 

For more information visit Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) young cyclist guide website-http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pdfs/young-cyclist-guide.pdf or http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/french/safety/pdfs/young-cyclist-guide.pdf