May is National Bike Month, and it celebrates a great activity that allows families to exercise together. Before heading out for your first ride, it’s important to do some safety checks on your family’s helmets. The helmet is an important piece of equipment that helps protect you from head injury if you’re involved in some type of accident. Here are some tips for making sure the helmets are in good condition and fit properly, and how to shop for a new one.

Look for Wear and Tear on the Helmet

The outer shell of your bike helmet should be free of cracks or other wear. The padding should still be intact. If you were wearing the helmet during a fall or an accident, it is time for a new helmet. Most helmets are rated to protect you through one impact.

Shopping for a New Helmet

The cost of a new bike helmet can vary widely, with some coming in under $20 and some for well over $100. You want to make sure that it fits properly. Look for labels stating that the helmet has been rated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), or that they are ASTM, Snell or ANSI certified. These organizations have tested the helmet to make sure it meets safety standards and offers good protection.

Take your child with you when you shop so that he or she can try on the helmets. You can make adjustments to make sure it is the right helmet for your child.

• The helmet should be snug on the head with no room for wiggling.
• The front edge of the helmet should be above the eyebrows about the width of two fingers.
• The front and back straps should form a “V” under the ears.
• One finger should fit between the chin strap and chin when your child’s mouth is closed.
• Have your child open his mouth wide, like a yawn. The helmet should pull down slightly on his or her head.

Make sure that your child can see straight ahead and to the sides without interference from the helmet. Now you have a properly fitted helmet that will offer protection in the event of an accident.

Caring for Your Helmet

Clean the helmet with warm water and a mild detergent, then dry it thoroughly. Do not soak the helmet or use strong cleaners. Store your helmet in a room that doesn’t get too hot or cold, and away from direct sunlight. Don’t leave the helmet in the car, as cars can reach extreme temperatures that will damage the helmet. Do not let your child sit or lean on the helmet. For more information on helmet care and safety, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. You will find lots of safety information and videos that will help you select the right helmet.

The CDC’s Heads Up app is another great resource you can take along when shopping for any bike or athletic helmet. It provides step-by-step instructions for choosing and fitting a helmet.

With these tips, your family is ready to take on some new biking adventures! 

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention