Some states require young bicycle riders to wear helmets at all times to protect their brains from injury during crashes. Helmets form a cushion that prevents major brain trauma if a person falls off her bike or collides with a vehicle. However, a bike helmet must be worn properly to maximize this protective effect. Carefully follow safety instructions included with the helmet to ensure your well-being.
Helmet Characteristics
Most helmets are made from plastic or Styrofoam, which protects the head from a sudden impact. A good helmet has a strong strap that will not release upon impact but easily unbuckles when necessary. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute recommends getting a smooth, rounded helmet without a pointed tail on the back. Look for a helmet approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Snell Memorial Foundation or American National Standards Institute. A bright-colored helmet and reflectors improve your visibility to others.
Wearing Helmet
Choose a helmet that fits snugly on your head without shifting more than 1 inch in any direction. Alter the size and positioning of interior pads to improve the fit. Wear the helmet flat on your head with the strap buckle directly below your chin. Helmets that tip forward or backward leave your head vulnerable to injury. Wearing a bike helmet appropriately improves your safety on the road.
Considerations
A helmet with scratches, dents or cracks is too damaged to wear. Always throw your helmet away after any crash or impact, because damaged helmets do not keep your head safe. Wearing a helmet is no substitute for learning basic bicycle safety. Follow the rules of the road, use a light or horn, avoid sidewalks and remain vigilant to avoid being hit by a car.
Warning
While helmets are excellent protection against bicycling-related injuries, they are inappropriate for other recreational activities. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that bike helmets may cause injury or death when used on playground equipment or while climbing trees. Helmet straps can easily get caught, strangling the user. Always remove your helmet when you get off your bike to prevent these injuries.
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