Kelseyville >> Bicycle collisions in Lake County have become all too common in the last year and local law enforcement and fire departments have decided to take action.
On July 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Lake County Fairgrounds, Lake County’s public safety departments will be hosting a Bicycle Safety Rodeo.
“Bicycle Safety Rodeos are designed to help improve bicycle riding skills. They are not a race or timed event; each skill course has purpose and by doing each course a few times, you can see the skills improve,” said officer Kory Reynolds of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). “We will be inspecting each bicycle and making sure each child has a properly fitted helmet.”
Proper fitting of helmets will be demonstrated and a limited number of helmets will be given away.
“In the past year there were six serious bicycle collisions in our county, two that resulted in fatal injuries to teens and one teen suffered a major head injury. We believe that through education, enhancing community awareness and some enforcement, most bicycle collisions can be prevented,” said Lt. Hector Paredes, commander of the Clear Lake Area CHP.
Local law enforcement and fire departments would like this to be a community effort and are asking for everyone’s assistance.
“When I drive around the county, I see too many children not wearing helmets when riding their bicycles.” Reynolds continued. “Helmets are a must when kids ride their bicycles; it’s not only the law but a helmet could very well save their lives if they get involved in a collision.”
Lake County agencies are asking for bicycle helmet donations, which can be dropped off at any county fire department or law enforcement office.
“We’re not asking for money; we’re asking members of our community who wish to help to buy a helmet and get it to one of the departments; it will be greatly appreciated and it could save a life.” Reynolds said.
At the conclusion of the event all participants are welcome to stay and enjoy barbecued hot dogs and drink’s which will be provided at no charge.
For more information, contact the Clear Lake CHP office at 279-0103.
The Lake County Fairgrounds are located at 401 Martin St. in Lakeport.
