{"id":3067,"date":"2025-04-23T19:57:21","date_gmt":"2025-04-23T19:57:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/?p=3067"},"modified":"2025-04-23T19:57:21","modified_gmt":"2025-04-23T19:57:21","slug":"bicycle-helmet-safety-everything-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/?p=3067","title":{"rendered":"Bicycle Helmet Safety: Everything You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"\" data-start=\"56\" data-end=\"376\">When it comes to cycling, wearing the right helmet is essential for protecting your head from potential injuries. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"378\" data-end=\"418\"><strong data-start=\"378\" data-end=\"418\">What to Look for in a Bicycle Helmet<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"1257\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"747\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"747\"><strong data-start=\"422\" data-end=\"451\">Single Impact Protection:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"751\" data-end=\"970\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"970\"><strong data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"773\">Fit and Comfort:<\/strong> A helmet should fit snug and comfortably. When trying on a helmet, shake your head from side to side and front to back\u2014there should be no movement. The helmet should stay in place and feel secure.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"972\" data-end=\"1257\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"974\" data-end=\"1257\"><strong data-start=\"974\" data-end=\"992\">Certification:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1291\"><strong data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1291\">How to Wear a Bicycle Helmet<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"1293\" data-end=\"1803\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1293\" data-end=\"1397\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1296\" data-end=\"1397\"><strong data-start=\"1296\" data-end=\"1312\">Positioning:<\/strong> Place the helmet on your head so that it sits level, not tilted forward or backward.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1398\" data-end=\"1697\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1416\"><strong data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1415\">Fit Check:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1697\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1512\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1512\">There should be <strong data-start=\"1438\" data-end=\"1460\">two fingers\u2019 width<\/strong> between the bottom of the helmet and your eyebrows.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1516\" data-end=\"1571\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1518\" data-end=\"1571\">The straps should form a <strong data-start=\"1543\" data-end=\"1554\">V-shape<\/strong> around each ear.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1575\" data-end=\"1697\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1577\" data-end=\"1697\">The chin strap should be tight enough that there\u2019s only <strong data-start=\"1633\" data-end=\"1655\">one finger\u2019s width<\/strong> of space between the strap and your chin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1698\" data-end=\"1803\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1701\" data-end=\"1803\"><strong data-start=\"1701\" data-end=\"1717\">Final Check:<\/strong> Shake your head up and down and side to side. The helmet should stay snug and secure.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"1832\"><strong data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"1832\">Buying a Bicycle Helmet<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1925\">When purchasing a new helmet, here are some important tips to ensure you get the right one:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1926\" data-end=\"2487\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1926\" data-end=\"2017\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1928\" data-end=\"2017\"><strong data-start=\"1928\" data-end=\"1956\">Choose the Right Helmet:<\/strong> Make sure you buy a helmet specifically designed for biking.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2173\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2020\" data-end=\"2173\"><strong data-start=\"2020\" data-end=\"2028\">Fit:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2174\" data-end=\"2347\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2347\"><strong data-start=\"2176\" data-end=\"2203\">Child-Specific Helmets:<\/strong> When buying for children, ensure the helmet fits them now, not one they will grow into. Children\u2019s helmets should fit securely but comfortably.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2348\" data-end=\"2487\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2487\"><strong data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2373\">Avoid Used Helmets:<\/strong> Never buy a used helmet, as you can\u2019t be sure if it\u2019s been in a crash or is too old to provide proper protection.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2489\" data-end=\"2527\"><strong data-start=\"2489\" data-end=\"2527\">Helmet Maintenance and Replacement<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2529\" data-end=\"2603\">Helmets wear out over time, so it\u2019s important to replace them when needed:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2604\" data-end=\"2824\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2604\" data-end=\"2636\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2606\" data-end=\"2636\">After a crash or large impact.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2637\" data-end=\"2672\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2639\" data-end=\"2672\">When it no longer fits correctly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2673\" data-end=\"2753\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2675\" data-end=\"2753\">If the helmet shows signs of damage such as cracks, dents, or worn-out straps.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2821\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2756\" data-end=\"2821\">Every <strong data-start=\"2762\" data-end=\"2776\">five years<\/strong>, even if it hasn&#8217;t been involved in a crash.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2859\"><strong data-start=\"2825\" data-end=\"2859\">Concussions and Cycling Safety<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2861\" data-end=\"3099\">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\u2019s still important to understand the signs and symptoms of a concussion. These can include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3100\" data-end=\"3255\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3100\" data-end=\"3130\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3130\">Confusion or memory problems<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3131\" data-end=\"3163\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3133\" data-end=\"3163\">Headache, dizziness, or nausea<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3164\" data-end=\"3195\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3166\" data-end=\"3195\">Sensitivity to light or noise<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3196\" data-end=\"3219\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3198\" data-end=\"3219\">Trouble concentrating<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3220\" data-end=\"3255\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3222\" data-end=\"3255\">Irritability, sadness, or anxiety<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3257\" data-end=\"3375\">If you experience any of these symptoms after a fall or accident, stop cycling immediately and seek medical attention.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3408\"><strong data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3408\">Helmets for Biking and More<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3410\" data-end=\"3734\">If you\u2019re participating in multiple activities, make sure to use a helmet that\u2019s 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\u2019s label to confirm which sports the helmet is certified for.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3736\" data-end=\"3951\">For additional information on bicycle helmet safety, and to learn more about the best practices for fitting, wearing, and maintaining your helmet, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/parachute.ca\/en\/\"><strong data-start=\"3889\" data-end=\"3909\">Parachute Canada<\/strong><\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ottawapublichealth.ca\/en\/public-health-topics\/helmet-safety.aspx\"><strong data-start=\"3918\" data-end=\"3950\">Ottawa Public Health website<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3953\" data-end=\"4094\">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!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wearing a properly fitted, certified bicycle helmet is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect against serious head injuries while cycling.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3068,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"give_campaign_id":0,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3067","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"aioseo_notices":[],"rttpg_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"landscape":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"portraits":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"large":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"inforward-post-grid":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"inforward-full":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"inforward-post-full":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false],"inforward-related-posts-image":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-230x150.jpg",230,150,true],"inforward-portfolio-small-image":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-360x260.jpg",360,260,true],"inforward-portfolio-big-image":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-555x380.jpg",555,380,true],"inforward-testimonial":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-263x263.jpg",263,263,true],"inforward-events-slider":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-612x300.jpg",612,300,true],"woocommerce_thumbnail":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-300x300.jpg",300,300,true],"woocommerce_single":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-600x400.jpg",600,400,true],"woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet-100x100.jpg",100,100,true],"rt_custom":["https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/helmet.jpg",612,408,false]},"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"Andrea Shane","author_link":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/?author=3"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/?cat=18\" rel=\"category\">News<\/a>","rttpg_excerpt":"Wearing a properly fitted, certified bicycle helmet is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect against serious head injuries while cycling.","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3067","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3067"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3067\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3070,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3067\/revisions\/3070"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3068"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3067"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3067"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/timtierneyottawa.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3067"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}