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Bike Rodeo

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Every summer, the Port Washington Police Department holds a Bicycle Safety Rodeo. This year it was held on Thursday, July 8th, 2010 at Lincoln Elementary School, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Lt. Tom Barbuch and Officer Jason Bergin run the rodeo with the help of area businesses. The rodeo is free and all ages are welcome. Please check back regularly as this page will be updated when the date for the next Bicycle Safety Rodeo has been set.

For more information contact us at 262-284-2611. You may also contact Lt. Tom Barbuch at tbarbuch@pwpd.org or Officer Jason Bergin at jbergin@pwpd.org.

WHAT TAKES PLACE AT THE BICYCLE SAFETY RODEO?

• Make sure your children have proper fitting helmets.
• Make sure your children wear their helmets. A helmet can't protect your child if it's on a shelf in the garage.
• Instruct your child which streets and intersections are more dangerous than others.
• Instruct your child on safe ways to handle leaving driveways and approaching intersections.
• Explain to your child that even though they can see the car, the driver of the car might not be able to see them.
• Explain traffic laws to your child. Recent changes in the law have classified a bicycle as a vehicle. The laws that apply to you as a driver apply to your child on a bicycle.
• Set a good example for your child. Wear a helmet. Stop at stop signs. No matter what you tell your children to do, they will do what they see you do.
• Make sure the bicycle is the proper size for your child. If it's too big or small, your child will be unable to control it.
• Teach your children the turn signals. With a little practice, they become second nature.
• Take the time to ensure your children are safe on their bikes. Ultimately, you are the best teacher your children have.

Teach your children to always lock up their bike. A U-lock should be used, securing both the front wheel and the frame to a stationary object such as a bike rack. Help your children practice locking up their bike.

Record the serial numbers of your children's bikes and keep them with the sales receipt and a photograph of the bike. Register your bike at Port Washington City Hall or the Port Washington Police Department.

Mark children's bikes with an engraver to deter thieves and to help in identifying and returning a stolen bike. Use a unique number, such as your driver's license.