Const. Lisa Simonson talks to kids about the proper signals to use while cycling. (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Summer activities

Bike rodeo hopes to get kids thinking about safety

Jul 5, 2019 | 2:01 PM

The parking lot of the Art Hauser Centre was a hub of activity Friday.

The Prince Albert Police Service, along with SGI, Parkland Ambulance and other partners put on a bike rodeo to teach kids about bike safety and proper maintenance. Sgt. Terry Epp with P.A. Police said they are hoping to get some specific messages across.

“It’s all about safety and education, just making sure that kids are aware of bikes, they’re aware of the rules of the road, basic skills and just staying safe,” he said.

Epp said it has been awhile since an event like this was put on in the city and with the weather warming up it is best to put to on something like this early to get everyone thinking about thinking about it.

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The rodeo had a variety of stations set up, these included an obstacle course which kids could ride through on their bikes to learn about riding safely. Along with the course, representatives from Fresh Air Experience were on hand to talk about the importance of maintenance. Mike Horn said a number of people are not aware about keeping certain parts of their bikes up.

“A lot of people ride with their tire too low. You can get a flat tire really easily, bikes don’t perform and react maybe the same way if you have a really spongy tire,” he said.

Along with tires, Horn said some people don’t properly maintain their chains or brakes which can also cause problems.

Besides bike servicing, Horn said he and people from the shop are also able to help people out with making sure their helmet is fitted properly. Horn explained helmets should not move around while on your head and the chin strap should not be too loose. Horn added part of getting out to an event like the bike rodeo, helps get out the message people can come to his shop if they have any questions.

“We’re here to help,” he said.

Mike Horn from Fresh Air Experience talks to one cyclist about appropriate tire pressure (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn