Young cyclists took part in an impromptu cycling obstacle course at Kitchener’s Queensmount Arena on Saturday. It was all part of an event that aimed to share a message of safety.
“It’s basically to teach the kids more about bike safety, grab some free swag and just go out and enjoy the day,” said WRPS Const. Brad Hickey.
In a concerted effort to increase bike safety awareness in the community, regional police and various community partners converged on the arena for a bike rodeo event.
“So as we head into the warmer months, it’s a great time to get out there just to remind the kids and maybe those who are getting their first ride on the bike for the season … about bike safety and just to go out and have fun,” Hickey told CTV News.
With the aim of promoting safe cycling practices, the organizers and partners took the opportunity to address prevailing cycling safety trends and spread crucial messages.
“We believe that cycling is for everyone,” said Sheryl Dedman, Recreational Therapist at KidsAbility. “We are here to help families find the path they want to take for their child to enjoy cycling.”
The Brain Injury Association of Waterloo Wellington preached proper helmet use among youth and adults.
“Today we offer about 200 helmets,” said Executive Director, Lynda Abshoff. “We love the kids, but we see a lot of people without helmets as adults and that’s a problem for us too.”
With an ever-growing population in the region, Abshoff believes discussions surrounding bicycle safety are important now more than ever.
“It is important for anyone who is on any type of wheeled device to wear appropriate head safety equipment,” he said.
In the ongoing search for safer roads in the region, participants expressed their optimism about the lasting impact of collaborative initiatives in shaping a safer cycling culture.
“Obviously we like to promote bike safety, so having helmets and having everyone available, we want to help educate parents about the fact that there are bike options for your child,” Dedman said.
