Helmets protect from brain injury—a potentially serious consequence of sports injuries—and should be used for all contact sports, as well as in-line skating and skateboarding. Children, especially, should wear helmets when engaged in sports activities where impact could result in head injury. This includes children riding to school on bikes, scooters, inline skates and skateboards. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (2010), observed bicycle helmet use among children under the age of 16 was only 57%, statewide.
Safe Kids Fact Sheets and Research
Bike Safety Tips
Bike Helmet Fit Test
A National Study of Traumatic Brain Injury and Wheel-Related Sports (Pdf)
Resources
Safe Kids USA Website on Bicycle/Wheeled Sports Safety
The Bicyclist’s Survival Guide – ODOT TSD
Developing Bike Helmet School Policy King Co WA
Oregon Law
Bicycle helmets – Any youth under age 16 riding a bike or when a passenger on a bike in any public place (streets, roads, sidewalks, parks, etc.) must wear bicycle helmets labeled ANSI and/or Snell approved.
Safety helmets – Any youth under age 16 riding on skateboards, scooters and in-line skates in any public place (streets, roads, sidewalks, parks, etc.) must wear a safety helmet labeled ANSI and/or Snell approved.
Free or Low-priced Helmets
We are often asked where someone can find a free or low-priced helmet. Check first with your local Safe Kids coordinator. He/she will often know what local organization has, or might have, helmets. Schools or community groups interested in larger amounts should bulk-buy helmets. There are numerous vendors that offer group sales of helmets at wholesale prices. And, lastly, check the sale prices at your local retailer–helmets go on sale frequently throughout the year.