The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute is excited to announce the 12th annual Bicycle Safety Week in Saskatchewan - 'Biking through a Safe Summer' May 12 - 18, 2014.
The Prevention Institute would like to take this opportunity to encourage support for safe cycling strategies and the prevention of bicycle-related injuries among Saskatchewan cyclists.
Cycling is an activity that provides recreation and transportation for many Saskatchewan people. Cycling is a healthy and environmentally friendly activity but it is not without risks.
In Saskatchewan in 2012, 144 people were injured and one was killed as a result of bicycle-related collisions in urban centres. The citizens of Saskatchewan, like all Canadians, bear a significant financial burden associated with cycling-related injuries. Brain injury and death are unfortunate results of cycling-related injuries with direct medical costs that exceed $195 million per year in Canada. These injuries also result in an immeasurable burden on the injured individuals and their families, in terms of pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life.
The good news is that these injuries are largely preventable. It is important that cyclists understand and respect the risks associated with cycling, including the importance and fragility of their brain and the effects of a brain injury. By wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet, they can reduce their risk of a head injury by up to 85 per cent. The risk of injury can be further reduced by practicing safe behaviours. Safe behaviours that are practiced by cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians, along with supportive infrastructure in a community, can reduce the risk of injury due to a cycling-related collision.
The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute, a provincial, non-profit organization has been working since 1980 to raise awareness and educate others about the prevention of disabling conditions in children. Funding for Bicycle Safety Week is provided by the SGI/ABI Community Grant Program.
