Children ride bicycles either as a mode of transportation, or as a form of recreation. Since safety should always be a concern for parents, children are then provided safety gears. Quite a few mothers and fathers may think that for as long as young children put on bicycle helmets, they are already protected from life-threatening accidents. However, it is very important that parents make certain that their children are wearing it properly. After all, a bicycle helmet may only save lives, and lessen the risk of significant accidents, if it is put on properly.
There are many bicycle helmets that can be purchased, but choose the types which have passed safety standards. A helmet may be safe, if it has a seal of approval from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or from the Snell Memorial Foundation.
A bicycle helmet in no way should disrupt a rider’s visibility. If it blocks vision, choose a different one which permits full visibility. Ask your child as to which helmet can offer him great visibility. A great safety tip is to buy helmets with colors, which make a child noticeable to other motorists. It is possible to also encourage your child to put reflective decals on the helmet to make it more visible.
It is also essential that children have the right helmet size, and that they are taught the proper way to wear a helmet. Though it may seem like it’s easy, parents should stress proper usage since it may save a child’s life. The helmet should be put on flat on top of the head, and it should not cover the top of the forehead. The helmet should also not tilt forward or backward, and the chin strap ought to be fastened just beneath the chin. Adjust the chin strap when needed, to make the fit more secure. Helmets also come with foam sizing pads, which are essential to make the helmet fit snugly.
Keep in mind, the helmet should not rock forward or backward, or on either sides so that it can serve its purpose. If a helmet tips forward, the back of the head may not be protected in the event of an accident. Likewise, a helmet which tips backward may not guard the front and side of the head during a crash. For children with long hair, helmets with ponytail ports are available for a better fit.
Children must also be taught to take off their helmets before playing with playground equipment, or when they climb trees. Doing so is important simply because it may be a probable choking hazard, if the straps get caught. Parents should also periodically check the condition of a helmet. Check for cracks, dents, asymmetry or damage, because it may no longer be able to guard a kid from injuries.
Parents need to emphasize as well, that helmets need to be put on at all times, even at short distances. Inform your youngster that though helmets provide protection, it is still not an excuse to be reckless. A lot of children go to the emergency department because of bike associated accidents every year. Therefore taking chances is never an option, especially if it involves one’s safety.
To receive more parenting tips in your inbox, please visit http://www.gagazine.com and subscribe to our newsletter.