Achi news desk-
Young bikers took to an impromptu obstacle course at Kitchener’s Queensmount Arena on Saturday. It was all part of an event aimed at sharing a message of safety.
“It’s basically to teach the kids more about bike safety, pick up some free swag and just get going and enjoy the day,” said WRPS Const. Brad Hickey.
In a joint effort to increase awareness of bicycle safety in the community, the regional police and various community partners gathered at the arena for a fascinating rodeo event.
“So as we get into the warmer months, it’s a great time to get out just to remind the kids and maybe those who ride their bikes for the season … about bike safety and just to get out and have fun,” Hickey told CTV News.
With the goal of promoting safe cycling practices, organizers and partners took the opportunity to address widespread bicycle safety trends and spread crucial messages.
“We believe cycling is for everyone,” said KidsAbility Recreational Therapist Cheryl Dedman. “We are here to help families find the path they want to take for their child to enjoy cycling.”
The Waterloo Wellington Brain Injury Association preached the correct use of a helmet among youth and adults.
“We are giving out about 200 helmets today,” said the manager, Linda Ebschoff. “We target children, but we see a lot of people without a helmet as adults and that’s a problem for us too.”
With a growing population in the region, Abshof believes discussions around bike safety are more important now than ever.
“It is important for anyone on any type of wheeled device to wear appropriate head safety material,” she said.
In the ongoing search for safer streets in the region, participants expressed their optimism about the continued impact of collaborative initiatives in shaping a safer cycling culture.
“Obviously we like to promote bike safety, so if the helmets and everything are available, we want to help educate parents about the fact that there are bike options for your child,” Dedman said.
