With schools out of session, the summer is a time for having picnics, swimming, and riding bikes.  Therefore, it is important to know the following smart safety rules to make your summer safe while you ride your bikes around Elk Grove Village:

• Be smart; follow all the bike safety rules.
• Learn the parts of your bike and make sure they are in good working condition before your ride.  Accidents happen when a part of your bike is not working properly.
• Always do a safety check before you ride your bike.
• Have your parents help you make sure your bike is the right size for you.  You should be able to place the balls of your feet on the ground while seated.
• Concentrate and stay in control while riding your bike.
• Be aware of traffic.  Stop.  Look left, right and left again for traffic before leaving a sidewalk, driveway or intersection.  Enter traffic only when the road is clear.
• Learn the traffic signals and obey them.  When you are riding with a friend, make sure you ride in a single file in the same direction at the cars.
• Don't turn around to talk to friends.
• Remember:  concentrate!

The following are some bike safety do's and don'ts:

Do:  Wear a bike helmet for long and short trips.
Don't:  Overload your bike basket.  Keep your hands free at all times.
Do:  Wear a strap or rubber band to keep pants from getting caught in the bike chain.
Don't:  Give rides to friends, especially on the handlebars.
Don't:  Ride your bike after dark without wearing reflective clothing.  Always use a light after dark.
Do:  Carry a lock and use it.
Do:  Register your bike with the Elk Grove Village Police Department.