The Importance of Helmet Use

We all know that a helmet is designed to protect your head by absorbing the impact energy when you fall or hit something with your head. While helmets cannot protect you against all head injuries, for many recreational activities, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a serious head injury and even save your life.

The Canadian Standards Association puts out standards for helmets. It is important to check that your helmet is CSA approved before engaging in a particular activity. This will usually be indicated by a sticker on the helmet itself. For more information you can visit: http://www.csa-international.org.

It is also important that you use the correct helmet for the particular activity or sport that you are engaged in. For example, helmets that are specifically designed for use in horseback riding or lacrosse would not be appropriate for use while cycling.

Lastly, make sure that your child takes off a helmet before playing on playgrounds or climbing trees. If a child wears a helmet during these activities, the helmet’s chin strap can get caught on the equipment or tree and pose a risk of strangulation.

Our goal at Oatley, Vigmond is to increase education and awareness about helmet use and to hopefully see a reduction in the terrible injuries that can be caused when helmets are not worn. Talk to your children about helmet use today.