Cycling to School Guide

What you should do when cycling | What you should not do when cycling

Here's what you should do when cycling:

	When you're on your bike, ALWAYS wear a helmet! If you cycle to school with your friends, they should always wear a helmet too.
	Before you cycle on the main road, check with your Mum, Dad or an adult first. You might be too young!
	If you are old enough to cycle on the main road, obey ALL the traffic signs and traffic lights- like every other road user. When the traffic lights are red, always stop and wait for the green light.
	Be Safe, Be Seen- Wear a reflective belt and reflective armbands, especially when you are cycling at dusk or in the dark.
	Be sure that your bike is in good working order. Make sure your brakes and tyres are working properly. Ask your Mum, Dad or an adult to check them for you.
	Be sure you have proper lights and reflectors on your bike.
	Use hand signals when turning or stopping (you'll see pictures of these below).

Turning Left	Turning Right	Stopping

	Always cycle single-file when overtaking.
	Keep well back when cycling behind a motor vehicle in all traffic.
	Make sure your shoe laces are tied. You don't want them to get caught in your bicycle chain!
	Take care on wet or icy roads, or when there is a strong wind.
	Use your bell as a warning only, not for fun.
	Use cycle tracks, where they are available.
	If you're walking on the footpath with your bike, don't forget to use the Safe Cross Code.
	Ask your Mum, Dad or an adult to show you a safe route for cycling to school from your home. You can use that same route everyday.

The Road Safety Authority says....we recommend that children under the age of 12 should not ride bicycles in any type of traffic.

...Don't forget to use the 'Cycling to School Safely Guide' on your way home from school too!

Back to Top