Bicycle safety basics for riders, parents

by Melissa Hastings
U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern


***image1***Bicycle riding season is coming to a close but remains an area of safety focus for parents. 

In October, a child was injured after entering the road on a bike from between two parked cars in Vogelweh Housing. Luckily, the child was wearing a helmet and is expected to recover. The following are some bicycle basics parents can use when talking to their children:   

1. Wear a properly fitted, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission approved helmet every time you ride.

2. Wear bright or retro-reflective clothing so motorists can see you.

3. Check the brakes, tires, bike reflectors and lights to make sure all is in place and functioning.

4. Learn the rules of the road and do not enter a street from between parked cars.

5. Do not wear headphones or other listening devices while riding.

6. Do not ride at night or in inclement weather when it is difficult for motorists to see you.

For more information on bicycle safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at www.nhtsa.gov.  

(Melissa Hastings is the safety manager for the U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern.)