Bike Safety Meets Fun

Oskaloosa Police Lt. Craig Alexander gives some last minute safety tips to a young rider before taking off on the obstacle course.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Safety lessons can be a pretty boring experience, but for young riders around Oskaloosa, getting those lessons was a bit more fun on Saturday.

An obstacle course was available to them, after their bicycles were checked to make sure simple things like brakes functioned properly, before meeting with Oskaloosa Police Lieutenant Craig Alexander.

Alexander would give some last minute tips and pointers, and the young riders would take off. Along the course, Oskaloosa Police Officer Gary Kutcher was there to lend a hand, along with firefighters from the Oskaloosa Fire Department.

“As they learn to ride bikes, it’s important they learn the safety rules,” said Alexander. “It’s really important that they develop those skills, and it’s also important that we have a relationship with those kids, so if they need something, or help, they’re not afraid to come and talk to us.”

Ann Smith, Community Wellness Coordinator, at Mahaska Health Partnership, said that since May is bike month, this highlights bikeability in the community, and connects the kids with the community to “teach them how to bike.”

“It’s also a great way to engage them in safety issues,” added Smith.

Several area businesses joined together in the program to help provide things like bike helmets, bicycle lights and even a couple of bicycles for some lucky kids.

On May 6, 2012 was the official grand opening of the urban park. Now 5 years later, Saturday’s event showcased how such facilities play a role in providing safe areas to learn and play.