Bicycle Helmets

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• Get your child a helmet as soon as he or she starts learning to ride.
• The helmet may have a foam shell or a hard shell. Buy only a tested, approved helmet. It should have an approval sticker from either SNELL or ANSI Z90.4.
• Make sure the helmet is the right size. It should fit snugly so it will not move around on the head or come off in a fall.
• The helmet should be worn over the forehead, not tipped back. The front edge should be only 1 inch above the eyebrows.
• Have the child hang the helmet from the handlebars when not riding the bicycle. This helps the child remember to put it on before every ride.
• Over time, the foam fitting pads inside the helmet wear down and may need to be replaced to ensure a snug fit.
• It's a good idea to replace the entire helmet every 3 to 5 years, especially if it is worn in the sun a lot.