Bicycle Safety

Bike Safety for Kids

Riding a bicycle is an important and fun part of childhood development. Yet all too often, children and adults are seriously injured or even killed when they fail to follow safety rules.

Head injuries are the leading cause of death and permanent disability in bicycle crashes. The single most effective way to reduce head injuries from bicycle crashes is by simply wearing a helmet. All riders need to wear a helmet, regardless of age, how short of a distance they’re traveling or how close to home. Many accidents happen in driveways, sidewalks or on bike paths – not just on the street.

Here are some helpful bike safety tips:

• Always wear bright colors and enclosed toe shoes.
• Remember to stay hydrated.
• Check tire pressure, chain and brakes before you ride.
• Find the bike that is right for your body type.
• Never ride after dark.
• When on a trail or path, always announce yourself when passing others.

Bike Helmet Safety Video

Fitting a Helmet

Making sure your helmet is properly fit is very important in preventing serious injuries when using a bike or any wheeled device (including scooters, skates, etc.).

Step One

Make sure your helmet fits your head and doesn’t slide around. Some helmets have a dial on the back (Photo below) to adjust the snugness of the helmet. The helmet should be snug but not too tight.

Step Two

Make sure your helmet is level and not too high or too low. There should be about a two-finger width between your helmet and your eyebrows.

Step Three

Adjust the straps. Both sides should form a “V” right under the ears. The straps should lay flat against the skin and not touch the ears.

Step Four

Make sure the buckle is snug and secure. You will know when the helmet is just right when you can fit just 2 fingers between your chin and your buckle. You should also be able to open your mouth all the way without discomfort.

Making sure your helmet is fitted safe and secure should be a top priority for any child or adult planning to ride a bike, scooter, skateboard, etc. Serious injury and death can occur on anything with wheels. Our brain is something that needs protecting. Ride responsibly, have fun and be safe.

If you need assistance, you can call Trauma Services at 417-269-0920 to have a trauma representative make sure your helmets are a perfect fit.