Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere especially in these days when streets have become more dangerous with big, faster vehicles and motorists talking on cellular phones. However, some community members are hoping to instruct children on bicycle safety and improve skills during the first Bicycle Skills and Safety Day, which will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Village of Mineola Community Center, 155 Washington Avenue.

The Village of Mineola, Mineola Auxiliary Police, Mineola Bicycle Mower and Fitness, Dr. Ann Forte and Cross Street, Hampton Street and Jackson Street School PTAs will be combining forces for the event for the safety of children.

"I had heard over the summer in the news, I had heard a child was killed on a bicycle so that sort of got me thinking," said Village Trustee Linda Fairgrieve, who helped initiate the event.

Mrs. Fairgrieve then teamed with Dr. Forte, a member of the Cross Street PTA, who had the idea for the bicycle skills rodeo and the two combined their ideas. Mineola Mayor Jack M. Martins suggested that the other school PTA organizations get involved, which they did.

The community center will be set up in stations. Someone from Mineola Bicycle will inspect bicycles and helmets, which children are being encouraged to bring.

There will also be a bicycle skill testing and improvement rodeo. AAA provided suggestions for a rodeo in which kids can test their skills and improve their skills.

Another station will involve the Mineola Auxiliary Police, which will cover the rules of the road. Audrey Meinking of Mineola Bicycle will cover the topic of proper equipment such as making sure helmets fit properly and at what age hand-brakes are appropriate.

There will also be free giveaways while supplies last. It is also hoped that AAA will provide bicycle safety kits.

Kids are reminded to bring their bicycles and helmets as well as a parent. The event is recommended for kids age 5 and up since tricycles will not be permitted. "Hopefully, it will cover all aspects and prevent injury. If it helps to prevent one child from getting injured, it's fantastic," Mrs. Fairgrieve said.

The rain date will be Sunday, Oct. 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call Mrs. Fairgrieve at 294-5914 or Ann Forte at 742-0088.