PITTSFIELD, Mass. – Children taking part in the Pittsfield Summer Playground Program learned about bike safety Wednesday through a demonstration with Massachusetts Safe Routes to School.

The demonstration showed kids the ABC’s of a bike and how to signal when they are turning. 

Pittsfield Recreation and Special Events Coordinator Maddy Brown says many kids bike to the parks for their program.

“Well, we want to encourage activity and children to be on their bikes and walking, and obviously do it safely. So we want to give them the resources and tools to be able to arrive and get home safely,” said Brown.

According to Mass.gov, there have been 522 crashes involving bikes this year with two being deadly in Massachusetts.

When it comes to the reasons for these accidents, Mark Shieldrop of AAA said, “Many of these crashes are caused by drivers speeding and not paying enough attention. Often, a driver is scanning the road for other vehicles and will not notice a cyclist…”

Memphis Black was among those learning about riding safely at the park and says he will start wearing his helmet when he rides.

“Be safe and wear a helmet every time if you’re going to school on your bike alone, and be safe out there.” Black said. “You need to have a light on front of here for people and both sides if you’re riding at night for cars to see you, and if you’re riding your bike on the side of the road.”

AAA also shared tips for drivers, including looking for bicyclists before pulling out or turning, keep designated bike lanes clear, share the road and never become distracted.