Company offers training as shared scooters arrive in Chicago

CHICAGO (AP) - Shared electric scooters will be hitting the streets of Chicago, and one of the companies participating in the program is offering tips on how to operate and ride them safely.

Starting Saturday people will be able to rent scooters from 10 different companies in 50 square miles (129 square kilometers) of the city. The four-month pilot program will operate on the city's northwest, west and southwest sides.

The project is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and pollution. Electric scooters also have led to injuries and some deaths, and there have been complaints in other cities about people not properly returning scooters after use.

Lime is kicking off Chicago's program with a "First Ride Academy" that will include basics of safe scooter riding and responsible parking. The classes will continue throughout the program.