Bicycle Safety - The Helmet Rap

Get yourself a helmet that's tough and strong. Make sure your helmet passed the crash test. Look for a "Snell" or "ANSI" sticker on the helmet or the box it came in.

	With a lid that fits, you can't go wrong. A helmet that fits just right won't rock front-to-back or side-to-side. It should feel comfortable and not squeeze your head too tightly.

Adjust the straps up snug and straight. Your chin strap should tug slightly when you open your mouth. The front edge of your helmet should be about an inch above your eyebrows.

	And watch the heads turn when you hat looks great! Helmets aren't just for nerds anymore. They come in lots of shapes and colors. Choose one that looks cool on you.

When to replace your helmet.
Replace your helmet after a crash. Your helmet's foam lining gets crushed and can't protect you head very well a second time. Also, some experts recommend that you replace your helmet every five years because sun, weather and normal wear and tear diminish the foam's ability to absorb impact. Finally, keep close tabs on a child's helmet to make sure it maintains a safe and comfortable fit as the youngster grows.

Source: Snell Memorial Foundation. Thompson, Rivara and Thompson, The New England Journal of Medicine, May 25 1989




Two Wheels, One Voice.