Brain Injury Association of Mississippi
"Improving the quality of life for survivors of traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries and their families and
supporting programs designed to prevent brain injuries."

The Helmet Habit
Get Into It!

Good Reasons to Wear a Helmet
The most important reason is to prevent head injuries

1. Visibility:  You are easier to see.

2.
Emergency Data:  If you have a medical condition, you can tape
information inside your helmet.

3.
Climate Control:  A helmet will keep the sun off your head so that you
stay cooler.

4.
Image:  When wearing a helmet, motorists will expect you to ride
correctly.


Statistics
75% of all bicycle-related injuries and deaths are caused
by collisions involving the head.

Helmets are 85 – 88% effective in protecting against
head injuries.


Proper Fit
The helmet must stay on your head.  
It should fit snug and feel good.

It should be positioned on your head to cover
As much as possible – including the forehead.

Always buckle the chin strap.

Use the foam pads that come with helmet
to insure proper fit.


Helmets for children
(Purchasing Advice)
The helmet should cover as much of the head as possible.
The helmet should be positioned level on the head and fit securely when
fastened.


How to Get Your Child to Wear a Helmet
1. Let the child help pick it out.
2. Always insist the child wear it.
3. When you ride together, set by example – wear
your own helmet.
4. Praise and reward each time your child
wears their helmet.
5. Begin the helmet habit with the 1st bicycle ride.
6. Encourage other parents to buy and use helmets.

Safety Tips
1. Wear a helmet.
2. Obey signs and signals.
3. Ride on the right side of the road with traffic.
4. Watch for road hazards.
5. Use hand signals.
6. Lock your bike.
7. Children Should not ride at night.
8. Watch for cars in driveways.
9. Use caution in wet weather.
10. Be predictable.
11. Give your bike regular check-ups.
12. Be considerate.


Helmet Care
1. Be careful of using paint or stickers on a helmet.
2. Clean it with a gentle soap and water.
3. Treat it with respect and care.
4. Helmets aren't forever.


2001 TBI Incidence Rates By Age
0-14  -------------  569
15-29        ------------ 698
30-44  ------------   414
45-59        ------------  246
60 +  -------------  470

2001 TBI Death Rates By Age
0-14        ----------  47
15-29        ------------  228
30-44        ----------  203
45-59        ------------  129
60 +  ------------ 205