Since 2004, Flagstaff Biking Organization has been responsible for the Safekids Helmet Program and Rodeo Events in Coconino County. Run in collaboration with the Coconino County SafeKids Coalition, Flagstaff Biking Organization recruits hundreds of volunteers each year to make this children’s safety program a success.

HELMET PROGRAM: The easiest way for a child to avoid serious injury in a bicycle related accident is to simply wear a helmet. Recognizing that cost could be a barrier, Flagstaff Biking Organization helps to raise funds to be able to offer helmets at below cost. In 2008, over 1,000 helmets have been distributed in Flagstaff to students K-6 representing a 500% increase since 2004! With a donation from one Flagstaff Biking Organization member, one hundred free helmets were also given to children whose families could not afford the expense.

BICYCLE RODEOS: In 2008, Flagstaff Biking Organization has presented 6 bicycle rodeos and health fairs in elementary schools in Coconino County. Geared for children ages 8-12, this event teaches kids safe riding skills while having fun! After viewing a bicycle safety video and shown the correct way to wear a helmet, (and the importance of wearing one!) children would come outside and have a first hand experience of road riding. Volunteers set up a “faux” road course complete with street signs and pedestrian crosswalks in an existing parking lot. Volunteers lead children through the course while teaching them proper hand signals and rules of the road. Flagstaff Biking Organization volunteers also show children (and adults) how to fit helmets to their head properly and give a short presentation on safety and the importance of safety gear (lights at night, etc.). While some children learned safety on their own bike, our program is able to offer 17 bicycles available for children who do not have one available for the Rodeo. In 2008, this bicycle safety education program has exposed over 500 children to bicycle safety.

Safekids 2008 Year Highlights:

• Over 500 children (and counting!) have been taught bicycle safety skills by attending a Flagstaff Biking Organization sponsored Bicycle Rodeo.
• 972 Helmets were sold BELOW COST to children to ensure finances were not an obstacle to safety.
• 100 Helmets were given away FREE to children at our Bike Bazaar during Bike to Work Week due to a donation from a Flagstaff Biking Organization member, Kyle Norris, MD.

Upcoming Events:

July 12th:  Pinewood Fire Department Safety Day, Munds Park Fire Department  10am-3pm

August 16th:  Bicycle Rodeo, Wheeler Park, Downtown Flagstaff  11am-4pm.