Charlotte County Kids Learn Bike Safety with Free Helmets and Lessons
PUNTA GORDA, FLORIDA – Families in Charlotte County gathered at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library this weekend for a community event focused on bicycle safety, where children received free helmets and hands-on lessons.
Free Helmets and Riding Lessons
Charlotte County deputies teamed up with Florida health officials to teach children how to properly wear helmets and ride safely. Community members donated bikes for the event, while Trek Bicycle provided free maintenance for attendees.
Event organizer Katelin Deushane said she hopes the program builds a culture of bike safety among young riders.
“I hope that it is a way that everyone knows how to stay safe on a bike, because that was what I was envisioning for this program,” Deushane explained.
Parents Stress Importance of Helmet Use
Parents praised the focus on helmet safety, saying many adults grew up without the same guidance.
Shannon Powenski, a Charlotte County parent, shared why the program mattered to her family:
“I want my child to learn how to wear his helmet properly and why we wear it. When I grew up, we didn’t wear helmets a lot. We didn’t really learn much about it. With how busy this area is growing, I think it’s really important they know you can seriously get hurt.”
Deputies Address Rising Bicycle Accidents
Charlotte County Deputy Lou Henyecz noted that bike use — and related accidents — are both on the rise in the county.
“Bicycle usage is on a rise, and with the usage comes bicycle accidents, unfortunately. We want to make sure we minimize the accidents and keep our children safe.”
He added that speeding is often a factor in children’s accidents, encouraging families to focus on control rather than speed.
“Speed is not the most important thing. Safe operation of the bicycle is what’s really important. Sometimes it’s better to slow it down.”
To help kids learn those skills, deputies set up an obstacle course teaching evasive maneuvers, such as avoiding a suddenly opened car door or a pedestrian stepping into the road.
Making Safety Second Nature
Organizers said the ultimate goal is to make bike safety second nature for children before they venture onto busier streets.
Full event coverage is available from WINK News.
For more community stories and local safety initiatives across Florida, follow SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
