Healthy Sullivan Coalition Holds Bike Safety Workshop at Spring Bluff School

Representatives from the Healthy Sullivan Coalition recently held a Bike Safety Workshop for the 4th and 5th grade classes at Spring Bluff School.  The students learned about a variety of topics including the ABC Quick Check which teaches kids to check air pressure in their tires, brake functionality, and their bicycle’s cranks, chain and cogs, potential bike riding hazards they might encounter while riding, how to perform proper hand signals when stopping or turning and the importance of a properly fitting bicycle helmet to ensure it will provide optimum protection in the event of a fall or collision.  At the end of the workshop, a lucky student from each grade won a new bicycle or scooter and matching helmet.

According to the Center for Disease Control, bicycles are associated with more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except the automobile and National statistics show more than 70% of children ages 5 to 14 ride bikes, however fewer than 48% wear bicycle helmets when riding. With 25% of all bicycle related injuries occurring in children under the age of 15, bike safety education it a valuable tool to help ensure children know how to ride safely.

Community Bike & Pedestrian Safety Education is one of several projects sponsored by the Healthy Sullivan Coalition, a partnership of local organizations aimed at improving community health and safety.  To find out more about the Health Sullivan Coalition, visit www.healthysullivancoalition.com, find them on Facebook at Healthy Sullivan Coalition or call 573-468-5619.

Funding for this project was provided in part by Missouri Foundation for Health. The Foundation is a resource for the region, working with communities and nonprofits to generate and accelerate positive changes in health. As a catalyst for change, the Foundation improves the health of Missourians through a combination of partnership, experience, knowledge and funding.