For Parents: Helmet Safety

For safety’s sake, be sure you and your child always wear helmets when biking, roller skating, in-line blading, and skateboarding—even just in the driveway. Otherwise, an accident could cause serious head injury. Make wearing a helmet a family rule. In fact, helmets may already be required by law where you live.

Features to Look For

How do you select the right helmet? Keep these points in mind:

• Find a helmet that fits correctly. Take your child along to try on the helmet.

• Choose a helmet your child will wear. Let him or her help pick the color and style.

• Look for the CPSC, ASTM or Snell seal of approval. These organizations test helmets for safety.

• Don’t use a helmet that has been in a crash. A damaged helmet may not protect the head.

Checking for Fit

With the helmet level on your head, tighten the strap until one finger fits under it.

Check the fit. The helmet should not move forward or back.