Organizers hold bike safety event to teach Buffalo youth

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Several bike organizers in Buffalo organized the East Side Youth Bike Rodeo to teach children the importance of bike safety.

A parent named Charnice Mcmillion-Martin says an event like this is exactly what the community needs.

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“Children don’t really know the precautions to take when riding a bike,” she says. “This is a huge benefit to the community because kids and parents can learn about bike safety and how to stay protected while cycling in the community.”

The coordinator of the East Side Bike Club is George Johnson.

He says he is happy to be part of this mission among the young people of Buffalo.

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“Because on the East Side of Buffalo there’s a lot missing and we feel like to go straight into the community, let’s go straight into the community and go to where the people are and we can educate them as much as possible on the bike and driving safety.

Others say this event provides an opportunity for kids who may not have even had the chance to ride a bike.

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“We are advocating for black and brown children to have access to bikes and also be able to have fun while riding a bike and do it safely,” says Noemi Waight.

Adam Ianni of GoBike Buffalo talks about safety measures.

“You need to be aware of your surroundings and your path of travel. If an inconsiderate person has parked in your right-of-way, then you need to take another lane of traffic,” he says. “You won’t have enough time to report, so it’s beneficial for all of us to be aware of these risks and dangers.”

Parents say the lessons their children learn could save lives.

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“We want to make sure he knows how to do things properly and GoBike and the East Side Bike Club and everyone else have taught that stuff really well,” one parent says. “When I was a kid, I’m old enough that I didn’t have to wear a helmet. we drove on the sidewalks in the suburbs, so the situation is completely different now and we want to make sure our children are safe.

Several more such events are expected to take place in Buffalo throughout the summer.

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