Less than 20 per cent of reported bicycle injuries involve collisions with cars. Most occur in falls, or as a result of riders losing control. A bad fall can result from a skid, catching a wheel in a crack or even getting a shoelace caught in the chain.

In a spill, the forehead usually hits the ground first. Head injuries cause most bicycle-related deaths and can result in serious injury such as brain damage. Up to 88 per cent of serious head injuries could be prevented by wearing a helmet.

It is critical for you and your children to wear a bike helmet that fits properly and is certified by CSA International (http://www.csagroup.org/ca/en/home)

Insist that your children always wear a helmet when riding. (It goes without saying that parents must set an example by always wearing theirs when cycling.)

Remember, a helmet only works when you wear it!

(Source:  Canada Safety Council - http://canadasafetycouncil.org/home)

Choosing and Fitting a Helmet

When choosing a helmet:

• you should try on several helmets carefully.
• level the helmet over your forehead and adjust the chin strap to fit snugly and comfortably.
• it should protect the forehead without slipping forward or backward.
• it should not move unless the scalp moves.

A trained salesperson will help you ensure the fit is right.

(Source:  Canada Safety Council - http://canadasafetycouncil.org/home)

Download and print a copy of Parachute's  "2 V 1" Rule helmet fitting bookmark and make sure your helmet fits right!  Copyright © Parachute - https://parachute.ca/en/

2 V 1 Rule Bookmark

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Additional Reading

To learn more about Helmet Safety, Concussions and other Injury Prevention topics go to Parachute at https://parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/helmets/

Here's a sample of a few helpful resources:

Which Helmet for Which Activity

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Wear It Right Every Time

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Facts and Myths About Helmet Legislation

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Concussion Guidelines for Care Partners

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All resources above Copyright © Parachute - https://parachute.ca/en/

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