Part 4: Bicycle Helmet Safety
Table of Contents
Less than 20 per cent of reported bicycle injuries involve collisions with cars. Most occur in falls, or as a result of riders losing control. A bad fall can result from a skid, catching a wheel in a crack or even getting a shoelace caught in the chain.
In a spill, the forehead usually hits the ground first. Head injuries cause most bicycle-related deaths and can result in serious injury such as brain damage. Up to 88 per cent of serious head injuries could be prevented by wearing a helmet.
It is critical for you and your children to wear a bike helmet that fits properly and is certified by CSA International (http://www.csagroup.org/ca/en/home)
Insist that your children always wear a helmet when riding. (It goes without saying that parents must set an example by always wearing theirs when cycling.)
Remember, a helmet only works when you wear it!
(Source: Canada Safety Council – http://canadasafetycouncil.org/home)
,
Choosing and Fitting a Helmet
When choosing a helmet:
- you should try on several helmets carefully.
- level the helmet over your forehead and adjust the chin strap to fit snugly and comfortably.
- it should protect the forehead without slipping forward or backward.
- it should not move unless the scalp moves.
A trained salesperson will help you ensure the fit is right.
(Source: Canada Safety Council – http://canadasafetycouncil.org/home)
Download and print a copy of Parachute’s “2 V 1” Rule helmet fitting bookmark and make sure your helmet fits right! Copyright © Parachute – https://parachute.ca/en/
,
2 V 1 Rule Bookmark
Additional Reading
To learn more about Helmet Safety, Concussions and other Injury Prevention topics go to Parachute at https://parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/helmets/
Here’s a sample of a few helpful resources:
,
Which Helmet for Which Activity
Wear It Right Every Time
Facts and Myths About Helmet Legislation
Concussion Guidelines for Care Partners
All resources above Copyright © Parachute – https://parachute.ca/en/
,
At any time, you may scroll to the Search bar at the top of the page and type a specific question or topic.