Summer is arriving soon and with it, the release of children from their studies and out upon the streets of Carson City. Already we are seeing an increase in children playing in their neighborhoods and riding bicycles along the roadway.
On Thursday we had an 8-year-old child struck by a vehicle. In this instance the crash was caused due to inoperable brakes on the child’s bicycle. This crash could have been much worse had the child not been wearing a bicycle helmet as he was ejected some 45 feet from where he was struck.
As parents we have a responsibility to ensure our children are safe when they are at play. We should be checking their safety equipment to make sure it is properly adjusted and undamaged. The bicycles they ride should be maintained so that they are safe to operate.
Below is a list of some things that you can check to make sure you child’s bicycle is safe to ride:
Handlebar position check– The handlebars should be tight and properly aligned with the front wheel.
Pedal check– The pedals should be firmly secured to the crank arms and turn freely. Rubber treads should be complete and intact.
Bicycle wheel check– To test the wheels for proper balance, lift the bicycle up and spin the wheels. The spinning wheel should not rub against any part of the frame, fender or brakes.
Bicycle spoke check– Replace any missing spokes.
Wheel rim check– Keep wheel rims free of rust and dents or kinks, which might interfere with proper seating of the tire.
Bicycle tire check– The condition of the bike’s tires will affect its handling. Check your bicycle manual for the correct air pressure; then pump the tires up to that air pressure using a hand pump and check the pressure with a tire gauge. Replace tires when tread is worn smooth or bald spots appear.
Chain check– A chain in need of adjustment will make a crackingor grinding noise. When a chain is in its proper position it shouldhave approximately 1/2 inch of lag.
Caliper hand brakes check– The levers should not be able to touch the handlebars before the brakes are fully engaged and the wheel is locked. Brake shoes should have at least a 3/16 inch rubber braking surface and be centered over the rim.
The nuts holding the brake shoes to the arms should be tight.
Let’s not forget to show our children how to ride safely and follow the rules of the road. Young children should never be allowed to ride without an adult as they are easily distracted.
Drivers, be extra careful when in neighborhoods as children are unpredictable and can dart out at a moment’s notice. Let’s all work together to make this a safe and memorable summer.
— Sgt. Scott McDaniel is with the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. He writes regular columns about public safety issues.