Bicycle and Scooter Safety

Translations:

العربية | বাংলা | 繁體中文 | Français | 한국어 | Kreyòl ayisyen | Polski | Русский | Español | اردو

Bicycling and scootering are the best ways for children and parents to get exercise and see the sights. However, children face many hazards and must follow safety precautions to prevent injury. Help set kids up for a great ride by making sure they have the right safety equipment in place and follow these tips:

Bicycle Safety Tips

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Make sure the helmet is snug fitting, not tipped backward or forward and adjust the straps so the form a "V" shape under and slightly in front of the ears.
• Make sure the bicycle is adjusted to fit the child's size. Ensure the seat height is adjusted to allow for a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended, handlebar height is at the same level as the seat; and the tires have enough air and the right amount of pressure.
• Watch for and avoid road, sidewalk and playground hazards.
• Avoid riding at night.
  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the same precautions for scooters as for bicycling. The following additional recommendations may help prevent scooter-related injuries:

Scooter Safety Tips

• Make sure your child rides an appropriate scooter for their age and height. Most scooter handlebars are adjustable.
• Invest in quality safety gear and consider dressing children in long sleeves and pants, knee pads and elbow pads to avoid scratches, scrapes or more serious injuries when they take a tumble.
• Young children should be closely supervised on scooters, especially while crossing streets.
• Avoid uneven pavement, hills, steps, curbs, gutters and other obstacles that can prove hazardous.