Bike riding this weekend? Expert has some tips for staying safe

Trout Run Trail bike riders (courtesy www.visitdecorah.com)

Now that the weather has turned summer-like, children will be getting their bicycles out for another season. However, it's important to keep a few things in mind to ensure this biking season is a safe one.

"One of the most important rules is to make sure your children wear a bike helmet," says Gundersen Lutheran – Decorah Clinic physician Dr. Tony Coppola.  "Wearing a helmet will provide some protection for your face, head and brain in case you fall down or are in an accident."

Dr. Coppola says if you need to buy your child a helmet, make sure it meets the bicycle helmet safety standards and that it fits properly. "A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, covering the top of the forehead," he says. "If it is tipped back, it will not protect the forehead. The helmet fits well if it doesn't move around on the head or slide down the wearer's eyes when pushed or pulled. The chin strap should be adjusted to fit snugly."

Dr. Coppola also suggests that parents should set limits on where children may ride, depending on their age and maturity. "Young children should ride only with adult supervision and off the street. The decision to allow older children to ride in the street should depend on traffic patterns, individual maturity and their biking experience."