Bicycle Helmet Safety: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to cycling, wearing the right helmet is essential for protecting your head from potential injuries. It’s important to choose a helmet that is specifically designed for biking, as each type of helmet is designed to protect against the types of impacts that are most common in a particular activity or sport.

What to Look for in a Bicycle Helmet

• Single Impact Protection: Bicycle helmets are designed to protect against a single impact. If the helmet is involved in a crash or hit hard, even if there are no visible signs of damage, it must be replaced. The materials inside a helmet can compress and lose their ability to absorb further impacts after a serious fall.

• Fit and Comfort: A helmet should fit snug and comfortably. When trying on a helmet, shake your head from side to side and front to back—there should be no movement. The helmet should stay in place and feel secure.

• Certification: Always look for a certification sticker, either on the inside or outside of the helmet, to ensure it meets safety standards for biking. In Canada, look for a helmet that meets the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Snell Memorial Foundation certification.

How to Wear a Bicycle Helmet

1. Positioning: Place the helmet on your head so that it sits level, not tilted forward or backward.

2. Fit Check:

   • There should be two fingers’ width between the bottom of the helmet and your eyebrows.

   • The straps should form a V-shape around each ear.

   • The chin strap should be tight enough that there’s only one finger’s width of space between the strap and your chin.

3. Final Check: Shake your head up and down and side to side. The helmet should stay snug and secure.

Buying a Bicycle Helmet

When purchasing a new helmet, here are some important tips to ensure you get the right one:

• Choose the Right Helmet: Make sure you buy a helmet specifically designed for biking.

• Fit: Try on the helmet before you buy it. A good fit is key to safety. Helmets should be snug but comfortable, without any extra room to move around.

• Child-Specific Helmets: When buying for children, ensure the helmet fits them now, not one they will grow into. Children’s helmets should fit securely but comfortably.

• Avoid Used Helmets: Never buy a used helmet, as you can’t be sure if it’s been in a crash or is too old to provide proper protection.

Helmet Maintenance and Replacement

Helmets wear out over time, so it’s important to replace them when needed:

• After a crash or large impact.

• When it no longer fits correctly.

• If the helmet shows signs of damage such as cracks, dents, or worn-out straps.

• Every five years, even if it hasn’t been involved in a crash.

Concussions and Cycling Safety

A concussion is a serious brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body. While wearing a helmet dramatically reduces the risk of concussion, it’s still important to understand the signs and symptoms of a concussion. These can include:

• Confusion or memory problems

• Headache, dizziness, or nausea

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Trouble concentrating

• Irritability, sadness, or anxiety

If you experience any of these symptoms after a fall or accident, stop cycling immediately and seek medical attention.

Helmets for Biking and More

If you’re participating in multiple activities, make sure to use a helmet that’s appropriate for each sport. Some helmets are multi-sport certified, meaning they meet safety standards for activities like biking, scootering, and more. Always check the manufacturer’s label to confirm which sports the helmet is certified for.

For additional information on bicycle helmet safety, and to learn more about the best practices for fitting, wearing, and maintaining your helmet, visit Parachute Canada and the Ottawa Public Health website.

Remember, a properly fitted helmet can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe on your bike. Stay protected and enjoy the ride!