Important Reminder: Safe Riding for Bikes, E-Bikes & E-Scooters
Dear FPS Families,
The snow has finally melted, and spring is just around the corner. It’s a great time for students to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. We also know that many students begin riding bikes, scooters, e-bikes, and e-scooters to and from school. We want to remind families about the importance of safe and responsible riding. Serious accidents in Fairfield and nearby towns show how quickly electric and motorized devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters can become dangerous if used improperly or modified to go too fast.
Please talk with your child about safe riding practices:
• Always wear a properly fitted helmet that is appropriate for the electric/motorized device being used.
• Follow all traffic laws and signals. Click here for a helpful graphic from the Fairfield Police Department regarding CT State Statutes, and here for a guide to proper hand signals.
• Ride at safe speeds and watch out for pedestrians and motor vehicles.
• Ride in a predictable manner, remain visible to drivers, and stay alert for vehicles entering and exiting school areas and roadways.
Students riding e-bikes or e-scooters must park in the designated bike racks. This helps keep students, staff, and school buildings safe, as lithium batteries can pose a fire risk if not stored or used properly. E-bikes/e-scooters are not permitted to be ridden on playgrounds, sports fields, grassy areas, or other non-designated areas on school property. Students who ride irresponsibly or violate school rules may face school discipline. Violations of applicable traffic laws may also be referred to the Fairfield Police Department.
In December, the Fairfield Safe Streets Alliance hosted a panel for families focused on motorized devices. The panel included ER doctors, police and fire representatives, and bike safety experts. You can watch a recording of the event for helpful tips and information on keeping children safe while riding bikes, e-bikes, and other motorized devices.
By working together, we can help students arrive safely each day and ensure their bikes and scooters are appropriate for their age and skill level. Thank you for your support in keeping our school community safe.
Sincerely,
Michael J. Testani
Fairfield Superintendent of Schools