provided to The Santiva Chronicle

Sanibel School students take part in a bicycle safety program with FDOT

In recognition of National Bike Safety Month, the Sanibel Recreation Center, in collaboration with The Sanibel School, the Florida Department of Transportation, and the Sanibel Police Department, hosted a special Bike Safety Day to promote safe cycling habits among youth.

As part of FDOT’s Bicycle Helmet Distribution Program, bike helmets were free of charge for all 4th and 5th grade students at The Sanibel School. The event started with a safety presentation by FDOT representatives, who shared essential tips about bicycle safety, the rules of the road, and the importance of wearing a properly fitted helmet every time you ride.

Students are fitted for a brand-new bike helmet by a trained FDOT helmet fitter.

After the presentation, each student was fitted with a brand-new bike helmet by trained FDOT helmet fitters, ensuring proper sizing and comfort. Once fitted, students moved outdoors to put their knowledge into action. With guidance from Recreation Center staff, led by Dave DeFonzo, Recreation Programs Manager, and members of the Sanibel Police Department, the students practiced safe riding techniques, including hand signals, proper directional riding, and following road signs in a fun and controlled environment.

“This event is a great example of our community coming together to keep our kids safe while encouraging active transportation on the island,” said Andrea Miller, Director of the Sanibel Recreation Center. “We’re proud to partner with FDOT, The Sanibel School, and our local police department to support safe cycling on our Shared Use Paths on Sanibel.”

Students practice safe riding techniques including hand signals, proper directional riding, and following road signs in a fun and controlled environment.

Jennifer Lusk, Principal of The Sanibel School, added, “I am incredibly grateful to FDOT for teaching our students vital bike and pedestrian safety. These lessons matter, with so many of our kids riding bikes and playing outside daily.”

“I am also incredibly thankful to the Sanibel Rec Center staff and Sanibel Police Dept for helping bring those lessons to life,” said Lusk. “These collaborations truly promote learning and safety.”

The Sanibel Recreation Center thanks all participating organizations for their continued dedication to youth safety and education.

For more information about upcoming events or programs at the Sanibel Recreation Center, contact (239) 472-0345 or visit www.mysanibel.com.

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