Cycling Safely this summer

Jun 7, 2023

Warmer weather means more outdoor activities such as bike riding so it’s a good time of year to review bike safety awareness. The Edmundston Police Force 2023 Bike Patrol will soon be on duty for this purpose.

Cycling is great exercise and a way for children to learn responsibility. Parents and caregivers should encourage biking while stressing safety, including mandatory use of properly fitted and secured helmets. The City of Edmundston has a bike path on which it is recommended to ride when possible.

Speed, inexperience and not wearing protective gear are among leading causes of cycling injuries for children. About a third of hospital emergency visits for children with cycling injuries involve broken bones, and one in 10 cycling deaths or serious injuries result from collisions with vehicles. (Source: Red Cross)

Tips to encourage bike safety:

• Ensure children wear properly fitted and secure helmets
• Use reflective stripes on clothing and bicycles, and use flickering lights
• Keep away from busy streets and parking lots
• Know and obey traffic rules when cycling on the road
• Bike with a buddy – if children are cycling any distance without parental supervision, make sure he bikes with a buddy, agree in advance on a return time and stick to a route that’s familiar, illuminated and avoids secluded areas

A bicycle rodeo is scheduled for Saturday, June 10th at the St-Jacques Palladium for children aged 5 to 13, we hope to see you there, and wish you a great and safe summer.

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CONTACT: Police Force, 506.739.2100