Since the inception of helmet safety regulations, serious head injuries in children under 15 have been reduced by over 60%. However, studies show that 45% of adults rarely or never use bicycle helmets, which means there are still a lot of adults out there who could be setting a better example for their children. It’s time we all used our heads more with these helpful hints.

Tips for helmet safety

• Look for a safety certification sticker, such as CSA, ASTM, CPSC or SNELL.
  
  
• Do not paint or decorate the helmet. It can hide evidence of cracks and dents that make the helmet unsafe.
  
  
• When fitting a helmet, make sure the pads touch all sides of the head, and that no more than two fingers can fit between the helmet and the wearer’s eyebrows. Also fit the strap tightly under the chin and each earlobe.
  
  
• Never wear a helmet over a hat or with a ponytail.
  
  
• Match the right helmet to the activity. For example, choose a bike helmet for cycling and a skateboard helmet for skateboarding or inline skating. And don’t forget the many other sports that have helmets designed especially for them, including football, baseball, lacrosse, and equestrian sports.

Helmets can’t prevent all head injuries in all sports, but using them properly can significantly reduce the number and severity. And if you are a parent, set an example for your kids and practice helmet safety yourself. For more information on preventing head and spinal cord injuries through the proper use of helmets, visit the Canada Safety Council website.