Bike riding is fun and great exercise, but it can also be dangerous. Bike accidents are a major cause of emergency room visits for children. That’s why it’s important to make sure your children practice proper bike safety. Here’s some key tips to keep your kids safe while riding:

Wear a helmet. Bike helmets are the single most effective way to reduce head injuries from bike accidents. Always make sure your child wears a properly fitting helmet. Click here to learn more about proper helmet-fitting.

http://www.safekids.org/sites/default/files/documents/bike_safety_tips.pdf

Make eye contact. Teach your kids to make eye contact with drivers. To avoid accidents, bikers need to make sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they cross the street.

Wear bright colors. Neon, fluorescent and other bright colors makes riders easier to see. Reflective tape on clothing also adds visibility.

Check your equipment. Bikes need to function properly for safety, just like a car. Make sure brakes work and tires are inflated properly before riding.

Ride under control. Make sure children always ride with at least one hand on the handlebars. Books and other items should be carried in a bicycle carrier or backpack.

Avoid riding at night. It is far more dangerous for bike riders to ride at night than during the daytime. Children especially should not ride their bikes after dark.