Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit

Kids love the freedom of riding a bike. It's also a great way for the whole family to enjoy being active. When children learn good cycling habits early they can stay safe.

Some bike safety tips for you and your family:

Ride a bike that fits properly. A child should be able to straddle the bike frame while standing with both feet flat on the ground.
Know and obey the rules of the road and traffic signs.
Realize that driveways are dangerous intersections. Look before entering the road. Stop before crossing, look left, ahead, right, and left again.
Always wear a bicycle helmet. It should rest two finger widths above the eyebrow. The side and chin straps should be snug. Cyclists under age 18 are required by law to wear an approved bicycle helmet. People of all ages should wear a helmet when they ride. Remember, you are your child's best role model.
Children under the age of 10 should not ride their bikes on the road. They do not have the physical and thinking skills to handle their bikes in traffic. Children over the age of 10 need practice before they can ride on the road.

Source: Safe Kids Canada

For more information on bicycle safety, contact the Injury Prevention Program at 613-966-5513, ext. 229

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