HELMETS - THE PROPER FIT

Information from Family Health Newsletter of Northeast Hospital Corporation

Brain injury is a leading cause of death in the United States and it need not be. In bicycle injuries alone, research has shown that 80% of the fatalities are caused from head injuries, most of which are preventable. Riders who do not wear helmets are 14 times more likely to have fatal injuries than bicyclists who wear helmets. In non fatal accidents the severity of injury is greatly reduced by helmet use. Often head injury is completely avoided. To be effective, helmets must fit properly. Heads come in a variety of shapes and sizes and so do helmets. You wouldn’t buy a hat without trying it on for size; think of a helmet as a life saving hat. When buying a helmet, for yourself or for your child, take time to see that the helmet fits snugly and is level and stable on the head. A properly fitted helmet should not rock from side to side or from front to back; it should not be perched on the back of the head. Children should be reminded that the helmet is useless if it is not secured. Helmets now come with adjustable pads and straps that will help ensure a good fit. To find the correct size, measure around the head, just above the eyebrows and use the chart below.

Revised: Saturday, February 23, 2002 08:42 AM