Household Hints by Rosemary Heads Up for Safety

It's definitely Spring -  the first harbinger has arrived. No, not our crazy robin who traditionally tries to build her nest in the space between the rear view window and car frame, nor is it the red winged blackbirds arriving at the pond. The neighbour's kids are all out with their bikes, the cheery spot on the street. All four little kids; a ten year old boy, twin eight year old boys and a five year old girl. Each of them sporting their sticker decorated helmets and having a great time. Our road is still a sand and gravel grade, so not the easiest to peddle on. We do however have one small crescent across from us that was paved when the municipal government had to repair a culvert and where all the children seem to congregate. I am so pleased that they are encouraged to be safe and, after having a chat with their Mom, thought I could pass on some of her sensible advice.

First of all, always insist on a helmet when biking, and set an example by using one yourself. Children can be encouraged to wear the helmet if they are allowed to decorate it themselves. They can do so with stickers or water based paints. The outside design of the device isn't as important as what's inside.
Make sure the helmet is certified with Canadian Standards Association (CSA); it should bear a sticker inside verifying this status.

Try several helmets to get the correct size and fit, level the helmet over the child's forehead and adjust the chin strap to fit snug and comfortably. It should protect the forehead without slipping either backward or forward. Don't presume last year's model will fit, do a check first and if it doesn't comply in any way put it in a give- away bin.
Teach your children basic road signs and road safety. Never allow a child to exit a driveway or park without stopping and checking for traffic, whenever possible ride with them. Teach them that it is most important to obey stop signs and check before departing or to walk their bike across the road.

Young children should never bike at night unless accompanied by an adult, and even then they should be on quiet roads and wearing clothing that has been sewn with reflective strips. Bike lights should be in good repair and working. Reflective tape is easily obtained at any sport or automotive store; if you do intend taking your children on an after supper ride outline the bikes with it.

Teach your children that when they are with a group of bikers that they are responsible for their own safety and not to copy-cat another child's maneuver. No bike tricks should be attempted until they are old enough and in control enough to try it. No Wheelies!!!

Now I'm watching to see if the little girls around the corner will be out with their skipping ropes. Yep, lots of signs of Spring and not a robin in the bunch.