It’s a beautiful day! What could be more perfect than a bike ride?

Cycling is an excellent way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. It can be a fun activity to do by yourself, with friends or your family.

But before you pull your bike out of the garage, let’s find out how to stay safe on two wheels.

Safe cycling is important for all riders whether you are an adult who has never ridden a bike, a child just learning to ride, or an advanced cyclist.

In Newfoundland & Labrador, everyone is required to wear a helmet on bicycles and off-road vehicles. It is the law. Parents of children under 16 are responsible if they knowingly allow their children to cycle or ride without a helmet.

Here are some tips to ensure a safe ride:

• Check your bike before every ride; remember ABC. Air – are your tires inflated adequately? Brakes – do they work, are they clean? Chain – is it clean, free of debris, and able to turn with no problems?
• Make sure your bike is the right size for you.
• Always wear a helmet. Helmets should cover the top of the forehead and rest about two fingers’ width above the eyebrows. The side straps should fit snugly around your ears in a “V” shape. The buckles on the side strap should fit right under the ear. Buckle the chin strap. Tighten it until you can fit only one finger between the strap and your chin. Teach your child to check the helmet fit every time.
• Wear right clothing and footwear.
• Know your road signs.
• Know the riding laws in your town.
• Take a safe cycling course such as CAN-BIKE

Do your part to make cycling enjoyable and safe for everyone!

The best way to prevent head injuries, including concussions, is to prevent the incidents that cause head injuries such as falls and collisions.