According to the National Head Injury Foundation, each year nearly 50,000 [tag-tec]bicyclists[/tag-tec] suffer serious head injuries leaving them with permanent disabilities.
The good news is that helmets can greatly reduce this risk. A study in Seattle found that wearing a bicycle helmet reduced the risk of head injury by 85 percent. Other biking risks include:
- Collision with a car or another bicycle
- Loss of control
- Mechanical and structural problems
- Getting hands, feet or clothing tangled in the bike
- Feet slipping from the pedals
In regard to [tag-ice]bike helmets[/tag-tec], which should be worn EVERY time your child-or you!-rides a bike, the helmet should:
Why should kids wear a bike helmet every time they ride?
The article presents helmets as the key safety habit for children and adults on bikes. It notes that helmets can greatly reduce the risk of head injury, so the practical rule is simple: every ride, every time.
How should a child’s bike helmet fit?
A helmet should sit level and firm on the child’s head, not tilted forward or backward and not worn over a baseball cap. The straps should fasten snugly under the chin, with no more than a finger’s width under the strap.
When should a bike helmet be replaced?
The article says a helmet should be replaced after a serious fall because it may lose its ability to absorb shock after taking a hit. If the helmet has protected your child in a crash, it has done its job and should not be treated like new.
- Sit level and firmly on your child’s head, but not be so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
- Not be tilted forward or backward
- Not be worn over a baseball hat.
- Have strong, wide straps that fasten snugly under the chin (you shouldn’t be able to fit more than a finger under the strap if it’s on properly).
- Always be fastened while riding.
- Be replaced after a serious fall, as helmets lose their capacity to absorb shock after taking a hit.
- Louis Garneau Grunge Kids Helmets look so cool that your kids will be begging to wear them. Just don’t tell them about all the added safety features like the:
- Quick-release buckle fastener with ergonomic shape.
- Airdry Fusion that provides better comfort and ventilation. Helmet stabilizing device for integrated receptacle.
- Rack-and-pinion mechanism for tight and quick adjustment. Airdry padding for optimum comfort. (For ages 6 to 15)
If you have a hard time getting your older child or teen to wear a helmet-you’re sure that he takes it off as soon as he gets down the block-Amazon.com has some Louis Garneau Grunge Kids Helmets that look so cool your kids will be asking for one in each color!
