Russian police teach kids road safety before summer cycling surge

Traffic police inspectors in Ola, Russia, have held safety talks with local children and teenagers ahead of the summer break. The sessions, organised by the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the Magadan Region, focused on keeping young cyclists safe on the roads. The talks covered key road safety rules for different age groups. Children under seven were reminded they can only ride bicycles on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, and bike lanes when with an adult. Those aged seven to fourteen may use sidewalks, pedestrian paths, bike lanes, and combined pedestrian-bike paths—but must avoid the roadway or shoulder.

A separate discussion addressed the proper use of personal mobility devices. Older teenagers, starting at fourteen, were told they can cycle on bike lanes or along the right edge of the road if no designated lanes exist. Officers also stressed the importance of wearing helmets, obeying traffic signs, and never leaving bicycles unattended. The sessions aimed to prepare young riders for safer cycling during the summer holidays.

The safety talks come as children prepare for more outdoor activities during the summer months. By clarifying age-specific rules and reinforcing basic precautions, authorities hope to reduce risks for young cyclists in the region.