Keep your family safe this spring by following these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) related to bicycle safety.
- Do not push your child to ride a 2-wheeled bike until he or she is ready, at about age 5 or 6. Consider the child’s coordination and desire to learn to ride. Stick with coaster (foot) brakes until your child is older and more experienced for hand brakes.
- Take your child with you when you shop for the bike, so that he or she can try it out. The value of a properly fitting bike far outweighs the value of surprising your child with a new one. For more information on finding the proper fit, go to http://www.aap.org/family/bicycle.htm#choosing .
- Buy a bike that is the right size, not one your child has to “grow into.” Oversized bikes are especially dangerous.
- Your child needs to wear a helmet on every bike ride, no matter how short or how close to home. Many accidents happen in driveways, on sidewalks, and on bike paths, not just on streets. Children learn best by observing you. Set the example: Whenever you ride, put on your helmet.
- When purchasing a helmet, look for a label or sticker that says the helmet meets the CPSC safety standard.
- A helmet protects your child from serious injury, and should always be worn. And remember, wearing a helmet at all times helps children develop the helmet habit.
- A helmet should be worn so that it is level on the head, not tipped forwards or backwards. The strap should be securely fastened, and you should not be able to move the helmet in any direction. If needed, the helmet’s sizing pads can help improve the fit.
Westchester County offers many scenic biking trails for the public to enjoy. Consider visiting one of these paths on your families next bicycling outing.
Bronx River Pathway
A paved, multi-use pathway that parallels the Bronx River Parkway.
North County Trailway
A paved, multi-use path that spans north through the heart of Westchester for 22.1 miles to the Putnam County border.
South County Trailway
A paved, multi-use trail 14.1 miles in length spanning central to southern Westchester.