When it comes to outdoor activities, we want you to live your best life while staying safe. If your outdoor fun is on two wheels, don’t forget the importance of helmet safety. Helmets are the best defense to unexpected bicycle accidents.
For health care professionals, summer is known as trauma season. Head traumas from biking (motorcycles too) is one of the reasons there is an increase in trauma cases. Across the U.S., 85% of all head-related bicycle injuries could have been prevented by just wearing a helmet.
The best way to teach your kids is to show them how to protect and prevent against injury, and the best way for you to do that is to know what to do. Before you ride, make sure you are following the same rules your children are expected to. With 300,000 children in the U.S. going to the emergency room every year due to these injuries, it is important that not only children, but adults are keeping safe on bicycles as well.
Another way to stay educated and prepared is by knowing your state’s laws and regulations for bike riders. Some states require helmets for certain ages and terrain. Make sure that no matter what the laws are in your area that you are always prepared for whatever can happen with your protective equipment.
When you are properly prepared and protected, it is easier to enjoy the ride.
Stay protected while bicycling by:
- Fitting two fingers comfortably between the front edge of your helmet and your eyebrows
- Making sure the v shape has both straps around each ear
- Fitting one finger comfortably between the strap and chin
How to find the perfect helmet fit
When looking for a new helmet, it is important to prepare before going to the store. Measure around your head where the edge of the helmet will lie (two fingers above your eyebrows). Most helmets are sized in centimeters so keep that in mind when you take your measurements.
While trying on helmets, look for a few things:
- Helmet should be level to the ground when it sits on your head
- Some helmets are adjustable – try adjusting for comfort
- If there are pressure points anywhere, the helmet is too small
- If there is any room between the helmet and your head, the helmet is too big
Adjust the straps so that they are comfortable, and you should only fit one finger between the strap and chin. After you have adjusted the straps and everything is put on correctly, open your mouth wide – you will feel the helmet press at the top of your head. If it still comfortable the helmet passed this portion of the test.
You will want to test the fit with a bit of movement. Move your head side to side, back and forth, then around in a circle. Then try moving the helmet side to side and back and forth. If it moves more than an inch in any direction, do more adjusting on the inside of the helmet.
If there are no other issues with the helmet, you are ready to ride! Have fun and stay safe while living your best life!
