Pearls of Prevention

When I am out and about and see people riding their bikes AND wearing helmets, two things cross my mind. First is, they rock! Good for them for getting out and enjoying a ride while being safe wearing a helmet. The second is, is that helmet really fitting them well? It makes me cringe when I see people, regardless of age, riding without a helmet or riding with an ill-fitting helmet.

Umm, I am a safe bike rider, why do I need to wear a helmet? Studies have shown that wearing a helmet correctly significantly reduces the risk of serious head injury and the risk of brain injury. Head injury is the primary or contributing cause of bike-related deaths. Many states have mandatory bike helmet laws for children. Kids learn by example. So that means parents, if you want your child to wear a helmet, then when you are out biking, you should as well.

When do I need to replace my helmet? Helmets should be replaced every five years, depending on the manufacturers’ recommendations. Helmets are designed for a one crash use only. The Styrofoam in the helmet is designed to absorb part of the crash energy and to increase the time it takes for the head to stop. This means it is protecting the brain. The thicker the Styrofoam, the increased cushion the helmet has. Even after a bike crash, the helmet and Styrofoam may still look intact. The hard plastic covering of the helmet may hide the Styrofoam damage. If you are concerned that the integrity is still intact, you can contact the manufacturer for an inspection. If your helmet is over 10 years old or has the cloth covering, it is time to get a new helmet.

Go out and enjoy the weather. Please remember that buckling up is not only for seatbelts!