February 21, 2014 at 2:48 p.m.
Save the date: Oneida County Bike Rodeo set for May 21
Save the date: Oneida County Bike Rodeo set for May 21
In 2011 48,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic in the United States, the health department said in a press release. Statistics show children ages 14 and under are five times more likely to be injured in a bicycle-related crash than older adults, and it is estimated that 75 percent of bicycle-related fatalities among children could be prevented with a bicycle helmet.
The health department is taking the initiative to make the community safer and prevent injuries when it comes to biking. Biking is an excellent opportunity for kids in the community to be physically active and easily travel from one place to the next. Every child is different, and it can be difficult for kids to judge the speed and distance of cars. That is why the health department feels it is crucial to learn bike safety at a young age.
OCHD will be partnering with the YMCA and the School District of Rhinelander 4k-Grade 3 CHAMPS program to implement an after-school program to properly educate children on bike safety. The program will be held once a week beginning in April, and will run approximately four to six weeks. Each session will incorporate an education piece, activity, and a guest speaker.
Main components include:
- Using correct hand signals
- Safely wearing a helmet
- Making sure your bike is safe to ride
- Proper road positioning
- Crossing the street safely
- Benefits of biking and being active
In May, the health department will host a community bike rodeo at the Rhinelander Walmart parking lot to put the children's newfound skills to use.
The Gear Up Oneida County Bike Rodeo will be held May 21, 2014 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Rhinelander Walmart parking lot. Rain date is May 28.
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