MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – If you drive by a school Wednesday, don’t be surprised if there are more bicycles parked outside than usual.
This is “National Bike to School Day.” Officials throughout Wisconsin are promoting the day as a great way for kids to get some more exercise.
Maria Skubal of the Oneida County Health Department in Rhinelander says not only improves a child’s physical health — it also fosters sharper minds and better performance in school. It also provides its own safety lesson.
Skubal says riders should wear helmets, ride in the same lane that motor vehicles use, obey traffic signs, and use turn signals. She says community volunteers are helping young bikers at busy corners — and they’ve got bags and coupons for ice cream treats to provide incentives.
The state DOT says parents should also take note of the safety advice. Tanya Iverson says the DOT has safety advice just for kids on a special Web site.
Officials say there’s a need to make young bicyclists safer. 5 through 14-year-olds make up about 15 percent of Wisconsin residents — but they account for 30 percent of all bike-related injuries each year.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)
