NEWS for North Dakotans
Agriculture Communication, North Dakota
State University
7 Morrill Hall, Fargo, ND 58105-5665
August 6, 1998
An educator from North Dakota State University wants to help parents learn a lesson about safety before they send their bicycle-riding children off to school.
"Bicycle helmets are so important to children's safety that parents should require them to wear one, especially those children of elementary-school age," says Linda Manikowske, an assistant professor in the apparel, textiles and interior design department at NDSU.
Just how necessary are bicycle helmets? Statistics compiled by researchers with the University of Washington's medical school help answer the question:
- 75 percent of bicycle-related deaths are the result of head injuries.
- 85 percent of all head injuries are preventable with the use of a helmet.
- 99 percent of children in the United States don't wear helmets when they ride bicycles.
"It doesn't really matter what type of helmet you buy, as long as it's approved and it fits right," says Manikowske.
When buying helmets for their children, parents should look on the box or the inside of the helmet for an approval label, either from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the Snell Memorial Foundation. As for fit, the helmet should sit level on a child's head. If straps are too tight the helmet slips forward and exposes the back of the head, Manikowske says. If the straps are too loose, it will slip back and expose the front of the head.
Two other features to consider are ventilation and the hardness of the outer shell. In general, the more ventilation there is, the more expensive the helmet will be, but ventilation also enhances comfort; if a helmet is uncomfortable, a child is less likely to wear it. A harder outer shell protects the inner liner and adds to a helmet's overall durability.
"Prices for helmets vary a lot," continues Manikowske. "You don't need an expensive helmet for protection. You can spend up to $150, or more, on an adult helmet, but most children's helmets have a price range of from $20 to $30."
Besides feeling comfortable and fitting well, children are more likely to wear bicycle helmets that they like the looks of, so it's a good idea to take children shopping so they can select a helmet that fits and satisfies other preferences as well.
"Parents should praise and reward children each time they wear helmets," concludes Manikowske. "Setting an example by wearing a bicycle helmet yourself is very important too."
Prudential HealthCare manages a toll-free telephone number that consumers can call for more information about bicycle helmet safety and to order helmets at reduced prices. That number is 1-800-694-3258.
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Source: Linda Manikowske (701) 231-7352
Editor: Dean Hulse (701) 231-6136