As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer there is no better recipe for kids and their families to get outside on the bikes. Whether you’re planning to ride to school, shops and attractions or to explore your local trails, here are few tips and resources to help keep you safe on 2-wheels.
- Protect your head. Always wear a helmet. Helmets save lives and are required by law for anyone under the age of 18
- Follow the rules of the road. Remember to obey traffic laws, lights and signs, and travel with the direction of traffic
- Be seen and heard. Use lights, reflectors and a bell. A bell lets others know you’re approaching. Lights keep you visible-white in the front, red in the back. Ensure lights are turned on until 30 minutes after sunrise and 30 minutes before dusk
- Be predictable. Ride in a straight line, signal turns and look behind you before turning or changing lanes
- Use hand signals. Hand signals tell other road users, including cyclists, what you intend to do
Cycling is a fun and healthy way to get around your community. Why not challenge you and your family to make more trips by bike this year!
Helpful Resources:
- Bicycling safety colouring pages for kids – get creative while learning
- Young Cyclist’s Guide – filled with great tips about cycling in Ontario
- Video tips from CAA South Central Ontario – how to be safe, be visible and be predictable
- Picking the right helmet and knowing when to replace it from Parachute Canada
- Safety videos and campaigns from Share the Road
- Grey Bruce Public Health – safe cycling, safe roads
Make your community a Bike Friendly one! Learn about getting one started here.
