Dr. Kate M. Cronan of Kids Health, a website run by the Nemours Children's Hospital Network, reports that more than 300,000 American youngsters each year end up in the emergency room because of bicycle accidents. Some injuries are minor, but some children sustain head injuries or broken bones. Most bicycle accidents are preventable, if kids are taught bicycle safety rules and parents make sure they follow those rules.
Protection
No child should ride a bicycle without wearing an appropriate helmet, Dr. Cronan warns. Approved helmets have a Consumer Product Safety Commission sticker. Helmets should be worn level and strapped snugly. Kids Health says that a child who chooses his own helmet and decorates it with stickers is more likely to wear it. Encourage your child to attach bright, reflective stickers so drivers can see him more easily.
Clothing
Teach your child to wear proper clothing when she is biking. Stay away from loose clothing that can become entangled in the bike chain, including long shoelaces and loose-fitting pants. Backpack loops can also get caught in a bike chain or spokes. Flip-flops and sandals should be avoided because they can easily slip off pedals. Kids also should never ride a bicycle while barefoot.
Visibility
Kids bicycles should be equipped with reflectors and children should wear bright clothing or fluorescent colors, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises. Bikes also can be equipped with flags to make them easier for pedestrians and cars to see. A bell or horn allows a youngster to warn pedestrians of his approach. Children also should be taught to verbally warn pedestrians and other cyclists when preparing to pass them.
Rules
Kids who ride bicycles should have a thorough understanding of the rules of the road as they pertain to bikes, according to Dr. Cronan. This includes knowing the proper side of the road on which to ride and how to give hand signals indicating a left or right turn. They should also be taught to obey road signs, to proceed with caution and to watch for turning vehicles or other potential hazards, according to the NHTSA. Never allow a youngster to ride a bike while listening to music with headphones. Headphones make it hard to hear car horns or to notice danger.
Maintenance
Help your child keep his bicycle properly maintained. Make sure the bike's tires are properly inflated and that the chain is oiled regularly, Dr. Cronan advises. Make sure the wheels, handlebars and seat are tight. Also regularly check the bike's brakes. Have any problems fixed before you allow your youngster to ride his bike.
Warning
Frequently remind your child of the importance of bicycle safety. Ground him if you catch him breaking the rules. It's better to be grounded than to end up in the emergency room or worse.
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