With the cooler autumn weather our kids will be itching to get outside and play. This will no doubt include the all-time favourite; riding a bike. Bikes are great for fitness and fun but what can you do to ensure your children are safe when riding?

First, explore your suburb and find a bike path your whole family can ride on. Did you know – children under 12 can ride on foot paths (unless otherwise marked) according to The Road Traffic Code 2000 (WA)?

Next – have you ever been tempted to purchase a bike your child can grow into? Just imagine trying to run in shoes too big for you. Pretty dangerous isn’t it? The same applies to bicycles. It’s important to choose a bike that is the right size for your child.

No matter what age your kids are, they’re not too young to start learning how to look after their bike. Teach them to go through a bicycle safety checklist each time they go for a ride. Not only will this demonstrate good practice, they will be able to flag issues with their bike before it becomes a problem. Hopefully this will transfer to when they get older and start to drive a car!

Wearing a helmet when riding a bike is a legal requirement in WA. You should ensure that your child’s helmet fits correctly and meets the Australian Standards Mark (AS 2063.2 or AS/NZS 2063). It should be light (less than 350g is best) and of a bright colour to increase visibility when out on the road. Avoid second hand helmets and replace the helmet if it has been subjected to a severe blow or is showing signs of wear and tear.

Little Things …

Read more information on bicycle safety.

 

Kath is a 40-year-old mum of three who works part time and enjoys reading, writing and catching up with other stressed out mums in her spare time. Usually she’s racing against the clock to make her boys (+ husband) arrive anywhere on time and feels quite the talented mother when two out of the three make it out of the house with shoes on!