Kids rode through obstacles, practised hand signals and learned all the do’s and don’ts of bike safety at Vanderhoof’s Bike Rodeo.
The Vanderhoof Fire Department, RCMP, Ambulance paramedics and District of Vanderhoof sponsored the day in partnership with Carrier Sekani Family Services’ Success by Six group who also hosted some craft and activity tables for the younger ages. A total of 17 bikes, five helmets, 22 water bottles and a number of gift baskets and cards were given away at the event which fully supported creating bike safety awareness.
Four stations focused on different safety factors. Station 2 had kids weave through cones and station 3, the figure eight, teaches kids balance and control, John Baker said, Fire department volunteer.
“They have to stay within the white lines teaching them to take corners and keep control all while looking ahead,” he said.
Graham Bell, 3, was caught going through the figure eight and said he likes racing and going fast on his bike.
“He’s got a run bike without pedals. It’s a good way to teach them balance. He’s been riding since he was two and will move to a pedal bike soon,” Marnie Bell, Grahams mother said.
Station 4 simulated a four-way intersection, and with the help of fire department volunteer Kevin Leslie, kids learned about what the proper signals are when turning.
“We’re teaching them the hand signals and to look both ways. Then they are quizzed throughout the obstacle what signal they would use,” he said.
Station one evaluated balance and ability to stay straight, said Bruce Raby, Fire Department volunteer.
“It’s about teaching the kids to be safe out in the road. Vanderhoof hasn’t been very constant in doing that. This is the second bike rodeo we’ve done but hopefully we can carry it on,” he said.