LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – 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.
Lake County’s public safety departments will host the “Bicycle Safety Rodeo” from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 401 Martin St., Lakeport.
“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. We will be inspecting each bicycle and making sure each child has a properly fitted helmet,” said Officer Kory Reynolds of the California Highway Patrol's Clear Lake Area office.
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,” said Lt. Hector Paredes, commander of the Clear Lake Area CHP. “We believe that through education, enhancing community awareness, and some enforcement, most bicycle collisions can be prevented.”
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,” said Reynolds. “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.”
Local 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,” said Reynolds said.
Hot dogs and drinks also will be offered at the event.
For more information, contact the Clear Lake CHP office at 707-279-0103.