In a collaborative effort Parent Link, RCMP and the Child Youth and Family Hub blocked off the entire Strathmore Curling Clubs Parking lot for a Bike Safety course for youth.  There were two sessions of the class that was geared for young cyclists and then a lesson for older children.

Rhonda Rhys-Doering, a senior parent coach with Parent Link, stated why this training clinic was needed, "We just thought it was a great idea to hold something in Strathmore to help kids ride safely around town and enforce the fun they can have too."

The RCMP was also on-site to reaffirm the safety lessons of the basics of the bicycles.  Proper helmet and bike size was some of the tip given but also a reminder that bikes are more than toys they can travel at a high rate of speed.  Constable Andrew O'Connell had the idea to set up a mock intersection to give the children a safe environment to practice the skill without and dangers from cars.  O'Connell talked about the most important guidelines when on a bike at an intersection, "The importance of stopping at an intersection, looking both ways to check for vehicles, and walking the bike across and not riding them across." 

The United Way was a great help to the program, and Rhys-Doering itemized where the fund went to, "We're really excited that the United Way grant has opened it up so we could provide some great loot bags for the kids.  Including locks and lights and reflective additions for their bikes.  Horns, bells, all sorts of wonderful things for their bike."

All schools will be back in session next week so this course definitely has good timing.