I had the pleasure of traveling for the first time to Warren Rhode Island to teach students at a summer camp about biking safety, and the importance of Being Noticed. There were four groups that ranged in age from 6 to 16. Despite the distraction when the ice cream truck arrived (!), all were attentive and engaged as a helper and I demonstrated what to do – and what not to do – while riding their bicycles. Unfortunately one of the campers earlier in the summer had been struck by a car while on his bike and was seriously injured, so it really drove the safety messages home. There were still too many kids, sadly, who admitted that they don’t wear helmets. We need to make ourselves as noticeable as possible, pay attention to what we are doing, don’t assume that drivers see us, and Stop, Look, and Wave before crossing the street.
The camp director has already signed RI Waves up for next year. In the meantime, bike safely and have fun! See you next summer-
Alice, RI Waves Program Coordinator