Keeping You Safe At The Ride

Since the very first Ride for Kids, the Ride has worked diligently to be the safest of biking events. As a result, it has maintained an excellent safety record. The Ride is a day that is enjoyed by riders and volunteers alike. On the day of the Ride, safety is the number one priority. Bike technicians, medical staff, water stop personnel, police officers, and road crew all work diligently to be certain that you have a safe enjoyable event as you ride on behalf of the kids that benefit from your hard work.

As we continue this wonderful event, your safety remains our priority. To provide the safest environment, all participants need to keep the following safety rules:

Rules

1. Helmets - It is required that every rider have a helmet and wear it for the entire route that the rider rides.
    
2. Children - In the past, children have participated in this event with their parents. We are delighted by their presence and participation the day of the Ride. But, as the Ride grows to over 1200 riders, it is necessary to enforce the following:
   • Children must be at least 12 years of age to ride alone in this event.
      
   • For safety reasons, children under 12 years of age are NOT permitted to participate in the ride in any way.
      
   • Due to the great number of riders, bike strollers will NOT be allowed at the event. (Strollers are attached to bikes and children sit in them but do not peddle.)
      
   • Guardians must sign a permission form on the day of the ride for any riders between 12 and 18 years of age.
      
3. Bikes - We are most fortunate to have many volunteer mechanics support our riders the entire day. It is important to remember that it is the rider's responsibility to bring a bike that is in good working order. There will not be time for the mechanics to do anything other than routine adjustments to bikes on the day of the Ride. We will continue to do our best to assist with all mechanical issues that may occur while you are out on the route.
    
4. Music - The use of personal music devices while riding in the Ride for Kids is not permitted, since it can prevent awareness of approaching traffic.
    

Tips

1. Be Predictable - Don't make sudden turns or stop suddenly.
    
2. Use Signals - Notify riders of changes with hand and verbal signals.
    
3. Pass On The Left - Slower riders should stay to the right. Announce "on your left" before overtaking other riders.
    
4. Announce Approaching Traffic - Call out "car back" or "car ahead" to announce approaching traffic.
    
5. Dress Appropriately - Know what weather is expected and dress accordingly. Wearing layers of clothing is a good idea.
    
6. Ride In Single File - Please be aware that traffic is not stopped for the Ride.
    
7. Watch For Railroad Tracks - Riders will be asked to dismount at particularly treacherous railroad crossings.
    
8. Water - Remember to drink plenty.

Please understand that these rules are for everyone's safety, especially the youngest riders. It is imperative that we ask for your cooperation. We hope that you will comply with these rules as our volunteers on the day of the Ride will be enforcing them. Please embrace the commitment to safety for the Ride for Kids, and we look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 27, 2008 for another great day!