With winter just around the corner, the days are getting shorter. Sunrise gets later each day until early January, when daylight hours start to increase. Students who are walking or biking to school or waiting at a school bus stop during this time should take a few extra steps to make sure they are safe and comfortable on their travels.
WALKING SAFETY CHECK
· Add reflective elements to your child’s backpack so they can more easily be seen by drivers.
· Ensure they have appropriate shoes for the weather or provide boots they can change out of once they reach school.
· Check gloves and winter hats for fit.
· Consider adding a small flashlight to your child’s bag in case they need more light on their way to and from school.
BIKE SAFETY CHECK
Helmet
· Children outgrow helmets quickly, so one that fit months ago may now be too small. Parents can check the fit or their child’s helmet by making sure the helmet sits level on the child’s head. The bottom of the helmet should sit just above their eyebrows.
· The chin strap should be snug enough so it cannot be pulled over the child’s chin but loose enough for comfort. Usually, a finger width between your child’s chin and the strap ensures the correct tightness.
· The straps should form a V shape just below the child’s ears.
· If the helmet is too tight, or too loose, it may be able to be adjusted by using the adjustable fit system. The helmet should not wobble or move around their head but should not be so tight that it causes uncomfortable pressure or pain.
If you are unable to adjust your child’s helmet for a correct fit, it may be time for a new one.
LIGHTS AND REFLECTORS
· Check bikes and scooters for reflectors. Sometime these are damaged, misaligned or missing. To adjust the reflector, loosen the screw, position it as needed, then tighten the screw.
· Add spoke, helmet, or backpack reflectors for extra visibility.
· Check bike lights to make sure they are working. White lights go in the front and red lights in the back. Some bike lights use batteries, while others are rechargeable. Practice with your child so they know how to turn them on and off.
Bike Gear
· Little hands will get cold quickly when bicycling in the winter. Gloves or mittens should be wind and waterproof and provide enough grip so hands are not slipping off handlebars.
· Thick winter hats should not be worn under helmets. There are hats and earmuffs specially made to work with helmets which do not decrease safety.