Spring is here and it’s time to dust off the bikes and helmets from wherever you store them during the cold winter months. It’s usually during this time that we realize just how much our kids have grown since we last took a spin! Replacing outgrown bikes is an obvious thing to do, but did you know that helmets should be replaced, too? A good rule of thumb for bicycle and helmet safety is this: “New season, new helmet.” Helmets are undoubtedly your child’s best bet for staying safe while biking. What’s more it’s incredibly important to be sure that their helmet is in good condition and fits properly.

Read on for more bicycle and helmet safety recommendations. And for an in-person bike safety event and obstacle course, find out about Spring Safety Saturday, hosted by Dom Fixes Bikes and WSFS in Berwyn on April 15th from 10 a.m–2 p.m.

Bicycle and Helmet Safety Recommendations

We chatted with Dominick Pecora, the teenage founder of the local, non-profit Dom Fixes Bikes, for his tips on bicycle and helmet safety. His foremost piece of advice is to always wear a helmet.

“I never get on my bike without a helmet — even if I am just going a few houses down the street,” he says. “Just remember that no matter how old you are wearing a helmet is cool. I am in middle school and I ride with high schoolers, and we all wear a helmet!”

Wear a Helmet

Make sure your child wears a properly fitting helmet every time they ride their bike. The helmet should be snug, but not too tight and it should sit level on their head, covering their forehead.

Check the Bike

Before each ride, check the bike to make sure it’s in good working order. Look over the brakes, tires, and chain to make sure everything is in good condition.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Encourage your child to wear bright or reflective clothing so they can be seen by drivers. They should also wear closed-toe shoes to protect their feet.

Follow the Rules of the Road

Teach your child the rules of the road and how to ride safely. This includes staying to the right of the road, using hand signals when turning or stopping, and obeying traffic signals and signs.

Ride in Safe Areas

Encourage your child to ride in safe areas such as bike paths or quiet residential streets. Avoid busy roads and intersections.

Stay Alert

Remind your child to stay alert while riding their bike. They should be aware of their surroundings and watch out for cars, pedestrians, and other obstacles. Ear buds for listing to music should not be worn while riding.

Ride with a buddy

Riding with a friend means safety in numbers — and more fun!

Spring Safety Saturday

Join Dom Fixes Bikes at the WSFS campus in Berwyn on April 15, 2023 from 10 am–2 pm. At this fun and kid-friendly community event, learn more about bike safety from Dom and the Tredyffrin Township Police Department. You’ll also learn about how to check your child’s helmet for wear and tear and when it should be replaced. While you’re there, be sure to take a spin on the obstacle course!

“The DFB mission is to provide a bike to anyone who is passionate about riding regardless of age, race, gender, or financial ability.” 

Dom, age 14

Dom Fixes Bikes is an IRS-registered  501(c)(3) non-profit based in Suburban Philadelphia. DFB is comprised of teens, educators, community builders, civic and business leaders, parents and dreamers, who genuinely believe that every child and adult, everywhere, has value and deserves access to a bike for either pleasure or transportation. They believe that hard times can fall on a family and sometimes even adults need some help getting back on their feet.