MONTGOMERY, NJ — Montgomery Township police recently partnered with local health and transportation groups to bring bicycle safety lessons to children through two community events.
According to the Montgomery Township Police Department, the department's Traffic Safety Unit worked with the Montgomery Health Department and Greater Mercer Transportation Management Association to conduct the children's Bike Rodeo at The Apartments at Montgomery Crossing on Hartwick Drive.
The event gave local children a chance to learn and practice bicycle safety skills through hands-on activities focused on bicycle control, awareness, safe riding practices and the importance of wearing a properly fitted helmet.
The police department reported that Montgomery Health Department Public Health Planner Emily Schreiner and Montgomery Health Officer Devangi Patel helped plan and coordinate the Hartwick Drive event and worked with Greater Mercer TMA to develop the bicycle safety program and activities.
Lt. Andrew Perry, Sgt. Timothy Giaccone and Officer Chris Parlow of the Montgomery Township Police Traffic Safety Unit worked directly with children during the event, providing instruction and guidance on safe riding habits.
The Princeton Elks also participated and donated ice cream and fresh produce.
Police also partnered with Princeton Montessori School for a separate "Bikes and Trikes" event for children ages 3 to 6.
According to the police department, Perry, Giaccone and Parlow took part in that program, interacting with the children and introducing basic bicycle safety concepts in what the department described as a fun and age-appropriate setting.
During the Princeton Montessori event, officers checked helmet fit and reinforced the importance of wearing a properly fitted helmet while encouraging safe riding behaviors, according to the police department.
The department said the event also gave officers a chance to build positive relationships with children early while introducing safety practices they can carry with them as they grow.
Police Chief Silvio Bet said, "Our children's safety is one of our highest priorities. Events like these Bike Rodeos give our officers an opportunity to connect with young members of our community while teaching them practical skills that can help keep them safe. Whether we are working with children who are just learning to ride or those developing their bicycle safety skills, these programs allow us to make a positive impact at an early age. We are proud of the work of Lieutenant Perry, Sergeant Giaccone, Officer Parlow, and our Traffic Safety Unit, and we appreciate our community partners for helping make bicycle safety education both informative and enjoyable."
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Hillsborough Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.