A properly used helmet can cut the risk of injury by 88%. Unfortunately, many children are not wearing their helmet correctly. The most common errors are pushing the helmet up off the forehead and wearing the helmet straps too loose.

In Canada, 

• Close to 2,000 children are hospitalized and 30 are killed each year due to bicycle injuries. Four in five of these deaths are due to head injury.
• Only half of children wear helmets while riding a bike, even though bike helmet legislation exists in five provinces including Ontario.

Safety experts say helmets should be worn when using any wheeled equipment: bicycles, scooters, in-line skates and skateboards.

Three steps to make sure that your child is wearing their helmet properly:
 

1.	FOREHEAD. Make sure the helmet covers the top of the child's forehead, just above the eyebrows. The helmet should be level on the head.
2.	EARS. The side straps of the helmet should form a "V" around each ear.
3.	CHIN. You should be able to fit just one finger between the chin strap and the child's chin. This will be snug but still comfortable.

Tips to help your child get into the helmet habit:

1. Start early. Begin the helmet habit with the child's very first set of wheels (eg. tricycle).
2. Fit counts. A properly fitted helmet protects your child's head better and it is more comfortable for him or her. Try them on in the store.
3. Explain. Tell you child how a helmet protects his/her head and brain.
4. Be consistent. Always insist your child wear a helmet when he/she is out on wheels, even when close to home (where the majority of incidents take place).
5. Be a role model. When you are out on wheels, wear your own helmet!

For more information or to book a helmet safety presentation, contact the Injury Prevention Program at 743-1000.