Tips for everyone about bicycle safety

Each year, hundreds of thousands of people are injured while riding a bicycle. But. many bicycle injuries can be prevented by wearing a correctly-fitting helmet while riding. Even children using tricycles or bikes with training wheels should wear protective headgear. Adults should also wear helmets at all times, including when riding with children. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute has more information on how to correctly fit a helmet. Be sure that helmets meet standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Snell Memorial Foundation or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Look for a label or a sticker on the box or inside the helmet indicating that it meets the above standards. Also, be sure to remember the following: Wear closed shoes while riding a bike. Make sure your bike and your child’s bike have good brakes, a front light and effective reflecting material. Ride only in safe areas and at safe times. Make sure bikes are the correct size for the rider. Learn about bicycle etiquette, laws and safe riding practices, and teach your children about them. Not all injuries can be avoided - taking a Red Cross Standard First Aid course will help you be prepared for the unavoidable.