Dragon Lake Elementary School hosted its very first bike rodeo on Tuesday (May 22) morning.
Any risks that might be associated with the “rodeo” title were more than nullified, however.
The event was put together by Northern Brain Injury Association (NBIA) and the United Way in the interest of promoting bike safety for young children.
Around 20 seven-year-olds lined up with their bikes on the school’s tarmac with a variety of fun helmets on.
“What we’re hoping to do is have Grade 2 students participate and gain an understanding of bike safety and also the importance of wearing a helmet to reduce the risk of injury and to prevent brain injuries,” says Ryan Challen, a community co-ordinator with NBIA.
Volunteers set up several stations for children to go through and hone skills like riding in a straight line, doing shoulder checks and mimicking going into traffic from a driveway.
They were also given a checklist on what to look for before getting on their bikes.
Is your seat the right height?
Do your wheels spin easily?
Is your chain snug, clean and oiled?
Do your brakes work?
Do you have reflectors?
Students were instructed to follow the 2V1 rule when it comes time to put on their helmet.
Helmets should rest two fingers above your eyebrows for best visibility and fit.
The helmet straps should form a “V” under the wearer’s ears.
There should be room for one finger between strap and chin.
With the weather encouraging adventurous bike rides, the timing could not be better for this event.
“We thought it was a good opportunity to partner with the school and also United Way to promote safety,” says Challen.
