Page 78 - GreenBook

B. Bicycle Safety:
While bicycilng may be a pleasurable activity for most children from even an
early age, there are many known hazards. The following information has been
presented by the American Academy of Pediatrics as part of their Injury
Prevention Program.

1. The Child as Passenger on an Adult's Bicycle:
Carrying a child on a parent's bike brings with it an increased risk of injury.
A young passenger makes the bike unstable and increases braking time. A
mishap at speeds of 15 to 20 mph, easily attained during casual riding,
could cause significant injury to the child. Following these guidelines will
decrease, but not eliminate, the risk of injury.

a. Only competent adult cyclists should carry young passengers.

b. Restrict riding with a passenger to parks, bike paths or quiet streets.
Avoid busy thoroughfares and bad weather, and ride with maximum
caution and at a reduced speed.

c. Infants too young to sit in a rear bike seat should never be carried on
a bicycle. Carrying an infant on a bicycle in a back or front pack is very
dangerous and should never be done.

d. Only children who are old enough (12 months to 4 years) to sit well
unsupported and whose necks are strong enough to support a light
weight helmet may be carried in a rear mounted seat.

e. A rear-mounted seat must:

• Be securely attached over the rear wheel.
• Have spoke guards to prevent feet and hands from being

caught in the wheels.
• Have a high back and a sturdy shoulder harness and lap belt

that will support a sleeping child.

f. A light-weight, baby's bike helmet should always be worn by a young
passenger to prevent or minimize head injury. Small styrofoam helmets

that meet the ANSI or Snell standards are available.

g. The child must be strapped into the bike seat with a sturdy harness.

2. Safe Bicycling Starts Eariy: Training Chiidren in Proper Use of Their
Bicycies:
When a child receives his or her first bicycle, a lifelong pattern of vehicle
operation is begun. A bike is not just a toy, but a vehicle that is a speedy
means of transportation, subject to the same laws as motor vehicles.

a. Parents should set limits on where children may ride, depending on
their age and maturity. Most serious injuries occur when the bicyclist is
hit by a motor vehicle.

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