It's a beautiful day and the kids are home from school. It's a perfect day for a family bike ride, right?

Before you and the kids rush out and start pedaling, there's another factor you need to consider - safety. Read on to find out why bicycle safety is so important and what you need to know to keep your kids safe Why Is It Important to Be Safe While Biking Each year in the United States, about 900 people die in bicycle-related accidents, and about a quarter are children between the ages of 5 and 14. And more than 1 million children receive medical treatment for biking-related injuries each year.

Although most automobile/bicycle accidents involving adult cyclists are caused by the motorist, most of those involving child bikers are caused by the child. Young children may have difficulty understanding the rules of accidents can be avoided by obeying bike safety rules and exercising caution while riding in traffic.

All cyclists should follow standard safety precautions. As an adult, you've probably already experienced the dangers of getting your pants caught in the bike chain, having brakes that fail to grip in the rain, or smacking the pavement when your gears unexpectedly slip. You may not be able to keep your kids from having the same accidents, but it's up to you to pass your knowledge and experience down to your children as they learn to ride. Riding With Young Children

When your child is very young, a smart way to teach her bicycle safety is by example. Today's child safety carriers and other options give you the opportunity to spend quality time with your child while introducing her to the open road. However, your child must always wear a helmet and should be at least 1 year old before you take him/her for a ride. Be a positive role model (and protect your own head) by wearing your own helmet, too. Helmets are available a low cost though a program available from the State of Kansas in conjunction with the Washington County Emergency Management Office. Further information link: Emergency Management Office or call 785-325-2134.