How to Keep Your Child Safe On a Bike

Children love riding bikes, and as parents it is our responsibility to keep them as safe as possible while doing so. Here are some factors to think about when choosing a bike for your child and keeping them safe when riding it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Size - When you are choosing a bike for your child, size is the most important thing to consider. It is safe when your child can sit comfortable on the bikes seat while their feet flat on the ground, and the handlebars should not be higher then shoulder level when your child is sitting on the bike.
   
   Training wheels - When your child is first learning how to ride a bike you should use one with training wheels until they are comfortable riding.

2. Brakes - Beginning children also will need to have foot brakes rather then hand brakes. They have some bikes that have both foot and hand brakes, but recommended for children ages 7 and older.
   
   Maintain their bike - In order to keep the bike on good working condition and safe, you want to regular maintain it just as you would a car. Oil the chain on a regular basis, check that the brakes do not stick, make sure the seat, handlebars, and tires are all well secured and not loose. Check the air in the tires as well!

3. Helmets - When your child is riding a bike it is important that they always wear a well fitted helmet for safety. Many people think wearing a helmet is not necessary when just riding the bike at home, but that is where the majority of accidents actually happen! If your child is reluctant, explain to them the possible injuries that could happen and tell them you want them to be safe. The proper fitting helmet is vital. Helmets help prevent 88% of brain injuries. Here is a guide to finding the perfect fitting helmet.
   Make sure it fits firmly while it's comfortable
   The helmet should be level and cover the forehead
   Fit snuggly under the chin with the straps fastened
   Make sure the helmet is not loose or it does not slide around when fastened
   Remember as your child ages, they will outgrow the helmet and require a new one. Check the helmet regularly to insure it fits properly.
   Discard any damaged helmets!

4. There are rules you want your child to follow when riding a bike for their safety and the safety of others. Here are some good rules to teach them.
   Wear bright colors when riding the bike so they are seen at all times.
   Obey all the traffic lights and signs just as cars have to.
   Ride their bike on the proper side of the road, along with the traffic.
   Always watch the road, for people, traffic signs, puddles, curves, hills, gravel, rocks, curbs, etc. Eyes on the road!
   Walk the bike across intersections and always use the crosswalk.
   Use hand signals so people are aware of where you are going.
   Have reflectors on the bike.
   Always wear a helmet!