Bicycle + Helmet = Safe Fun!
from Shine Newsletter, Spring 2007
Spring is in the air, and your kids can’t wait to put the pedal to the pavement. Before they do, remember to keep it safe.
Preventable injuries, such as bicycle accidents, are some of the most common reasons children seek emergency medical attention at The Children’s Hospital. Approximately five children come to the Vestal Emergency Trauma Center at Children’s every week to receive treatment for serious bicycle accidents.
“Riding bicycles has all sorts of health benefits, but it can also be dangerous if it’s not done correctly,” said Debbie Federspiel, manager of public affairs at Children’s. “We want to keep kids safe and injury-free, and one of the best ways to do that is to wear a helmet correctly and at all times.”
Helmet Safety Tips
In addition to teaching kids the rules of the road, follow these safety tips:
- Talk to your child about the importance of helmets.
- Make sure your child wears a helmet anytime she rides a bike.
- Be a positive role model by wearing a helmet when you ride.
- Make sure helmets fit properly. The helmet should sit squarely on her head and be snug enough to prevent the helmet from jostling around while riding.
Helping Those in Need
The experts at Children’s strongly advocate safe bicycle helmet use. Hospital representatives attend various community fairs and visit local schools to provide bike safety education. The hospital also participates in a program to provide helmets to children in need.
Make sure your child’s helmet meets safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) by looking inside for the CPSC sticker. Visit www.cpsc.gov for more safety information.
Learn more about the advocacy efforts at Children’s or join the Children’s grassroots advocacy network.
