Bicycle Helmet Safety

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dominikschuessler / Pixabay

Head injuries are the leading cause of serious injury and death to kids on wheels*. Most injuries occur when a cyclist suffers a fall, strikes a stationary object, or collides with another cyclist/pedestrian. Remember—it’s the law in Alberta that cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet (and highly recommended for all ages). Helmets should be CSA approved and worn during recreational activities such as skateboarding, in-line skating, and cycling.

Getting Informed

  • Wearing a helmet while cycling can prevent a serious injury, or even save a life;
  • Brain injuries can cause permanent disability or death;
  • Reduce your risk by always wearing your helmet;
  • Replace any helmet that has been involved in a crash, even if it appears undamaged.

Getting Started

  • Allow children to assist when buying their helmet. Cyclists who choose their own helmet are more likely to wear them;
  • Start the habit early. Young children learning to ride tricycles need to wear helmets;
  • Parents must lead by example – always wear a helmet when cycling.

Getting the Right Fit

  • Take the time to properly fit and adjust your helmet to ensure maximum protection in case of a crash;
  • When worn properly, helmets should fit level, not tilted up, or down over the forehead;
  • Helmets should feel snug, but not too tight. To test the fit, the helmet should not fall off when you shake your head from side-to-side while the straps are unfastened;
  • Adjust the chin straps to form a “Y” below and slightly forward from the ears;
  • Only one finger should be able to fit under the chin strap when it is fastened;
  • Do not forget to use the sizing pads included with the helmet. They will help improve the overall fit, comfort and safety.

*Parachute Canada: http://www.parachutecanada.org/injury-topics/item/wheeled-activities