Bicycle Safety: Ride Smart, Ride Safe

GET READY BEFORE YOU RIDE

Before riding, take a moment to check that your bicycle is ready.

Look for:
• Brakes that work properly.
• Tyres that appear properly inflated.
• Handlebars and seat that are secure.
• A chain and other parts that appear to be in good condition.

If something does not seem right, do not try to repair it yourself. Tell a responsible adult.

WEAR YOUR HELMET

Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet whenever you cycle.

A helmet should:
• Fit comfortably.
• Sit level on your head.
• Be secured correctly.
• Not wobble around when you move.

Ask a responsible adult to help check the fit if you are unsure.

Remember: Helmet first, then ride.

CHOOSE A SAFE PLACE TO RIDE

Choose a suitable place for cycling.

Where possible, ride in:
• Safe, appropriate cycling areas.
• Low-traffic areas suitable for children.
• Places where a responsible adult can supervise you.

Avoid riding in places that are unfamiliar, crowded or unsuitable for children.

If you are unsure whether somewhere is safe to ride, ask a responsible adult.

LOOK AND STAY ALERT

When cycling, pay attention to what is happening around you.

Watch for:
• People walking.
• Other cyclists.
• Vehicles.
• Turns and crossings.
• Objects or changes in the path.

Slow down or stop when necessary.

Do not assume that other road users have seen you.

Look ahead. Stay alert. Ride carefully.

STOP AND CHECK

Before entering or crossing a roadway, slow down and stop at a safe waiting point.

Look and listen for approaching traffic.

Only continue when it is safe to do so.

If you are unsure, stay where you are safe and ask a responsible adult for help.

NO DISTRACTIONS

Cycling requires your attention.

Never use a phone or allow toys, games or other distractions to take your attention away from riding.

Keep your attention on:
• The path ahead.
• Other people.
• Vehicles.
• Your surroundings.

Your attention helps you ride safely.

FOLLOW THE RULES

When cycling in places where road or cycling rules apply:
• Follow the applicable rules.
• Pay attention to signs and signals.
• Respect pedestrians and other road users.
• Follow instructions from a responsible adult.

Rules help people share roads and paths more safely.

WHEN TO STOP RIDING

Stop riding if:
• You are unsure where to go.
• The area becomes too busy.
• You cannot see clearly.
• Your bicycle does not seem safe.
• A responsible adult tells you to stop.

Move to a safe place and ask for help.

You never need to take a risk just to keep riding.

REMEMBER

CHECK
Make sure your bicycle is ready to ride.

HELMET
Wear a properly fitted helmet.

LOOK
Stay alert and watch your surroundings.

RIDE SAFELY
Choose a suitable place, follow the rules and avoid distractions.

CHECK → HELMET → LOOK → RIDE SAFELY

ASK YOURSELF

1. Why should you wear a properly fitted helmet when cycling?
2. What should you do if your bicycle does not seem safe to ride?
3. Why is it important to stay alert while cycling?
4. What should you do if you are unsure whether a place is safe for cycling?

PARENT / TEACHER TIP

Before a child rides, make a simple “ready to ride” check together. Ask the child to explain why the helmet, bicycle condition, riding area and attention all matter.

Encourage the child to say:

“If I am unsure, I stop and ask an adult.”