MANY parents will be thinking about buying their children new bicycles for Christmas this year – but Nottinghamshire County Council is urging them to consider more than just the style, size and colour.
“With recent reports suggesting that this year’s Christmas presents will be of the more traditional variety than of late, it’s likely that a brand-new bike is going to be high on many children’s wish-lists,” says Pam Shaw, the Council’s road safety manager.
“And while the pressure will be on mums and dads to make sure it it’s the right colour and has all the trendiest logos, it’s vital that parents choose their child’s bike with care and don’t let fashion compromise function.
“Parents can also help by teaching their child good road sense by setting a good example and by ensuring that they take part in an organised cyclist training scheme.”
Pam’s top tips for buying a bike this Christmas include:
l taking advice from a good local bike shop who can make sure the bike is safely assembled and offer after-sales service
l buying a cycle helmet that fits and encourage your child to look after it
l training your child in basic cycle control, steering, braking and looking all around, before he or she goes near the road.
l making sure they are always easily seen and wear bright, high-visibility clothing.
ENDS
