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Insisting on bicycle helmets is the most important step parents can take to keep
children and teens who ride bicycles safe.
Helmets reduce the risk of serious head injuries by 85 percent. Head injuries are
the leading cause of injury-related deaths among children. Helmets and other
protective gear also should be worn while in-line skating, skateboarding, sledding,
skiing, ice skating or using a scooter. Make certain helmets are approved by the
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Parents should buy and wear bicycle helmets as well. It is important for your
safety and to set a good example for your teen.
Below are some steps you can take to prevent bicycle injuries:
- Avoid bicycles that are too large or too small. A rider should be able to straddle
the bike and stand with both feet flat on the ground.
- Be certain all family bicycles have effective, safe brakes.
- Most fatal accidents occur at dusk and at night. If it is necessary to bike after
dark, make it clear that the bicycle light must be turned on and light-colored
clothing must be worn. Encourage your teen to wear clothing with reflective
strips when riding after dark.
- All bikes must have reflectors on the front and rear of the frame and on the
wheel spokes.
- Follow the same rules whether driving a car or riding a bicycle: obey traffic
signs, signal turns and stops, ride with traffic on the far right side of the lane
and ride in the bicycle lane if one is available.
Children’s Health Education Center offers free helmet fitting events throughout
the community. For more information, call (414) 765-9355 or visit the Other Community Events page for a current schedule.
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