Share

A helmet should fit

There are laws that require children to wear bike helmets, but there aren't laws that require parents to make sure helmets fit properly. And proper fit is as important as a proper helmet.

According to an article in New Jersey's Bergen Record, the helmet should be snug, but not too tight. The straps should go over the ears, not on top of them. And your child needs to understand that the helmet must remain parallel to the ground, not pushed back on the head. The helmet should cover the forehead and be strapped so it stays that way, the story says.

Older helmets often don't have newer safety features and can become brittle with age, something parents should remember when they pass down helmets from one child to the next. Helmets should be replaced at least every five years.

Another tip: make sure your child has a say in picking a helmet so he or she likes it enough to wear it.

- (Ilse Pauw, Health24)

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE