Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Spring 2018

STOP citizensmemorial.com 11 COMMUNITY TAGLINE HERE Don’t drink and ride. More than 20 percent of bicyclists killed in crashes have blood alcohol levels higher than the legal level in all 50 states. RIDE A BIKE THAT FITS. A bike that’s too big can be difficult for you or your kids to control. Check with a bike shop for tips on buying a bike. Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; National Institutes of Health Ride on the right side of BE GOODTOYOUR BRAIN. Make this a family rule: Everyone wears a helmet with every ride—mom and dad too. Make sure the helmet fits properly or it may not protect your noggin in a crash. Check out helmets.org/fit.htm for tips to ensure a good fit. Whether you’re 6 or 60, a bicycle is your ticket to good-for-you fun. All you have to do is hop on, hit the pedals and go. But wait: Not so fast! Even if you’ve ridden a bike a thousand times before, it’s worth checking out these safety reminders. FOLLOW ROAD RULES. Stop at stop signs and traffic lights. Just like motorists, cyclists must obey signs, signals and lane markings. CHECKYOURGEAR. Do the brakes work? Is the chain loose? Are the tires properly inflated? A well- working bike is a safer bike. WATCHFORHAZARDS. Remind kids to watch for parked cars (doors can open suddenly) and cars backing out of driveways. Be ready to avoid potholes, rocks or other road debris. GOWITH THE FLOW. Ride on the right in the same direction as the traffic— never against it. BE SEEN. Consider getting a flashing red rear light for your bike for low- visibility situations (stay off the road at night). At a minimum, install front and back reflectors, and dress in bright clothes, even in daylight. (Neon will get you noticed!) WELLNESS