No matter what your age or level of experience, whenever you ride a bike, in-line skate, ski, or engage in other activities during which your head is vulnerable to injury, a helmet should be worn. Wearing a bike helmet reduces the risk of serious head and brain injury by 85%. Helmets should be worn during every ride, no matter how short. Many accidents happen near home.

There are two basic types of helmets:

single-impact and multiple-impact. It’s important to select a helmet that fits you properly and that is appropriate to the activity you’re doing.

Single Impact (example: bicycle helmets) – designed to protect against ONE impact; Must be replaced after a crash or hard hit, even if it does not appear to have any damage

Multi Impact (example: hockey helmets) – designed to protect against more than one impact.
Multi Sport – does not mean multi impact but that the helmet is approved for more than one activity. Check the manufacturer’s label for the list of activities for which the helmet can be worn safely

Note: Always check the manufacturer’s label for an expiration date and replace as required. Hockey helmets expire 5 years from the date of manufacture.

During a fall or crash, a helmet absorbs much of the force of impact that would otherwise be directed to the head. Thick plastic foam (firm polystyrene) inside the hard outer shell of a helmet provides protection that cushions the blow.

A new helmet should be purchased after a crash. Even if the helmet appears fine, the interior may be damaged.

Children 5 to 14 years of age have the highest injury rate of all bicycle riders, and bike accidents are a leading cause of death for children.

Tips to help children understand the importance of wearing helmets:

Teach by example. Adults should always wear helmets when doing activities that have potential for collision. Be aware that your child is more likely to wear a helmet if he or she likes the way it looks.

Bike helmets save lives and prevent injuries, but in a few instances they are not appropriate:

Children should not wear helmets when they climb trees or play on playground equipment. A helmet may get stuck on a tree or piece of equipment and strangle a child.  Because a baby's neck muscles may not be strong enough to support a helmet, do not ride a bike at all with a child under the age of 1 year.

7 Tips to help you choose:

 1. Make sure there is a safety sticker inside (look for CSA, ASTM, CPSC or SNELL).

2. There should not be any decorations, paint or stickers on the helmet.

3. There should not be any cracks, dents or other damage.

4. Pads should touch the head at the front, sides, back and top.

5. No more than two fingers should fit between the wearer’s eyebrows and the helmet.

6. The V-strap must fit tightly under each earlobe.

7. Only one finger should fit under the chin strap.

Remember, head injuries can cause long-term disabilities and impairments. Wearing a helmet is an easy way to help prevent head injuries. Have a safe and enjoyable summer.