We all know that kids love to ride bikes, and we expect them to get their fair share of bumps and bruises when they do. But young bicyclists risk serious injury or even death if they do not learn and practice proper bicycle safety. The facts speak for themselves:

Bicycles remain associated with more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except automobiles according to the National SAFE KIDS Campaign.

The fatality rate for young bicyclists ages 5 to 18 was nearly twice the rate for all bicyclists in 1998, and the injury rate was more than twice as high, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Helmets

The first and most important step in bicycle safety is wearing a helmet. Head injury is the leading cause of death and permanent disability in bicycle crashes. Research has shown that bicycle helmets can reduce the risk of serious head and brain injury in all types of bicycle incidents by as much as 88 percent. Cyclists who wear helmets are 14 times less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than those who do not wear them.

It’s important to choose a helmet carefully and to make sure it fits properly. Look for a label or sticker that says the helmet has been tested and meets the new federal safety standard issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Select a brand and size that fits well prior to any adjustments. (When choosing a helmet for a child, buy one that fits now, not one to “grow into.”) Most helmets come with adjustable sizing pads to help ensure a better fit.

A properly adjusted bicycle helmet fits comfortably and securely. It should be worn level on the head, not tilted back on the crown or pulled low over the forehead. Once the helmet is adjusted, you should not be able to move it more than an inch in any direction. Getting a proper helmet fit takes time – as much as half an hour. Do it when your child is relaxed and you have plenty of time, not when you’re in a hurry to go outside and ride. Once the adjustments are made, you can secure the straps so the helmet will be ready for the next ride.

Many communities offer bicycle education programs, and a growing number of states and localities have passed mandatory helmet legislation. Both of these measures have been effective in increasing helmet use. But the best way for children to learn about the importance of wearing a helmet is from their parents. So set an example for your children and always wear a helmet when bicycling.

Purchasing a Bicycle

A safe bicycle is one that is the right size for the child. Many parents look for a bike that their child will “grow into.” But the wrong size bicycle, especially one that is too large, may cause your child to lose control and be injured.

Here are three simple tests to use when checking a bike for proper fit:

Sitting on the seat with hands on the handlebar, your child must be able to place the balls of both feet on the ground.

Straddling the center bar, your child should be able to keep both feet flat on the ground with about a 1-inch clearance between the crotch and the bar.

Bicycle Maintenance

Maintaining your bicycle in good condition is another important safety step. You can keep your bike running smoothly by taking good care of the tires, chain, and wheels. Bike experts offer the following tips:

Check the tires frequently to make sure there are no large cuts, bulges, bubbles, or worn spots where you can see the inner lining. Keep the air pressure within the recommended range printed on the side of the tire.

Keep the chain well oiled. A dry chain can lock up or break suddenly, causing you to lose control.

Rules of the Road

Because bicycles share the road with cars and other vehicles, cyclists must obey the same rules as motorists. Be sure you know your local traffic laws, and teach them to your children.

When riding on the road, always ride single file in the same direction as other traffic. Be sure to signal your moves, and communicate with other motorists by making eye contact. Always check for oncoming traffic before you enter a road from a driveway, alley, bike path, or side street.

National Bike Month

May has been designated National Bike Month. This annual event provides an opportunity for local communities, corporations, clubs, and individuals to promote bicycling as environmentally friendly transportation, a vehicle for personal wellness and exercise, and a fun recreational activity for the whole family.

You can help promote bicycle safety in your community during the month of May. Here are some ideas:

Take a bike ride with your child (remember to wear your helmet!).

Buy a new, properly fitting bicycle helmet for a child in your neighborhood who doesn’t have one and invite him or her to join you on a bike ride.

Resources to help you plan a bicycle safety activity are available from many national organizations and from federal safety agencies, including the League of American Bicyclists, the National Center for Bicycling and Walking, the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, the National Safety Council, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You can contact them through the Bike Hub website at /exit.cfm?link=http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/bike

Whether you participate in small ways or large, be active and make National Bike Month memorable in your community. Help someone develop safe biking habits for life!