Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Each year about 1, 200 bicyclists are killed and over 500, 000 injured in America. Most deaths related to bicycle accidents involve head injuries. By just wearing a bicycle helmet, head injury could be decreased 85% for both adults and children. It is estimated that fewer than one out of 10 bicyclists wear a helmet. Young children on bicycles receive a higher ratio of head injuries than older bicyclists. If all children wore helmets, 75% of bicycle accident deaths in children could be prevented. Bicycle helmet use by children aged 4 to 15 years could prevent about 155 deaths, 45,000 head injuries, and up to 55,000 scalp and facial injuries annually in the U.S.

Bicycle helmets absorb the energy of an impact to reduce or prevent head injury. To provide safety during impact, a helmet must have a chin strap and buckle that will stay securely fastened. As of March 1999, all bicycle helmets manufactured in or imported to the United States must meet safety standards issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Consumers should look for a label or sticker that says the helmet meets the CPSC safety standard. Be sure the helmet fits and is age and size appropriate. Helmets for children aged 1-5 cover a larger portion of the head. Helmets should sit level on top of the head, feel comfortable, fit securely and have the straps fastened. Do not tip the helmet forward or back.

Wear a bicycle helmet whenever riding a bike. Even young children riding a tricycle should wear a helmet, as should passengers on a parent’s bike. Follow the rules of the road. Always provide children with adult supervision. For more information, call (810) 785-4811.