Falls and scrapes are inevitable when your child rides a bike. Almost 690 children are injured each day in bicycle-related crashes, according to Safe Kids USA. While it may not be possible to completely prevent biking injuries, your child can reduce his risk of being involved in an accident by learning a few key bicycle safety rules for kids.
Helmets
Secure helmets by pulling straps snug enough to keep the helmet on the head. When the straps are fastened correctly, you should not be able to move the helmet forward, backward or to either side. If you can push the helmet back and see your child's forehead, the straps are not tight enough. The helmet should be level on your child's head and cover the forehead. Replace the helmet if your child has been in a crash, even if the helmet does not appear to be damaged. The cushioning power of the helmet could be compromised, despite a lack of outward damage.
Equipment Check
Teach your child to perform a brief check of her bicycle each time she rides it. Wheels, seats and handlebars should not be lose or wobbly. Brakes should be in good working order and tires should have enough air to allow safe riding. Tell your child to inform you if brakes start to stick or aren't working well. Oil the chain on the bike regularly to keep the bicycle in good working order. The bicycle should not be too large or small. Your child should be able to touch the ground with her feet when sitting on the bike.
Approved Riding Areas
Let your child know which areas you consider safe for bike riding. Riding areas for young children may be limited to the driveway or the area immediately in front of your home. As the child's bicycling ability improves, you may wish to extend his range to nearby streets or parks. If you live in a high-traffic area, you may want to limit bicycle riding to a bike path at a park rather than neighborhood streets.
Safe Bicycle Operation
Teach children to look both ways for before entering the street or sidewalk and cross the street only at crosswalks. KidsHealth.com recommends that children younger than 10 ride on the sidewalk, rather than riding on the street. Bicyclists should ride with the flow of traffic, rather than against it, and use bike lanes when possible. Riding close to parked cars should be avoided. If an occupant of the car suddenly opens a door, your child could be thrown from her bike. Obstacles that can cause crashes should be avoided, if possible. Common obstacles include rocks, gravel, wet leaves, potholes, grates, puddles and changes in the road surface.
Recommended Clothing
Loose clothing around the ankles should be secured to prevent clothing from becoming caught in the bicycle chain. Sneakers or other shoes that provide traction on the bicycle's pedals should be worn. Flip-flops and bare feet should be avoided. Wearing light-colored or bright clothes will help motorists see your child, particularly at night. Reflectors on the bike and reflective strips on clothing can also make your child more visible.
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