Going for a bike ride is a great way to spend quality family time and promote healthy lifestyles. But bicycle safety statistics show that there are still many people out there that are not wearing helmets. A family must remember the key rule to bike riding: safety. All family members should be wearing a helmet for bicycle safety reasons. For children under the age of 16, it is a state law to wear a helmet.

Helmets are just like any product, they come in all different colors, styles and sizes. For proper helmet sizing use the following to help.

1. Size—You need to measure your head for approximate size. Make sure the helmet fits snuggly and not loosely. Helmets come with sizing pads or a universal fit ring. Adjust these according to the size of your child’s head and as they grow.
2. Position—The helmet should sit level on your head and not tilted back. It should sit low on your forehead, with one or two finger widths above your eyebrow.
3. Buckles—The left buckle should be centered under the chin.
4. Side Straps—Adjust the slider on both straps to form a “V” shape under and slightly in front of the ears. If the slider is capable of being locked, then do so.
5. Chin Strap—Buckle your chin strap. To make sure there is a snug fit, tighten the strap so no more than one or two fingers fit under the strap.
6. Final Fitting—Make sure the helmet fits correctly. Open your mouth wide to make sure the helmet pulls down on the head. If not, then it is not snuggly fitting. Readjust the chin strap. Make sure your helmet doesn’t rock back and forth. If it does, then move the slider to adjust for a snug fit.

Other Bicycle Safety Tips for Bike Riding

1. Make sure you wear bright colors to be visible at all times. (Avoid dark clothes, especially during early dusk and twilight hours.)
2. Pant legs shouldn't be too loose-fitting or flared. These can get caught up in the chain while riding.
3. Choose shoes that grip the bike's pedals. Cleats, shoes with heels or flip-flops can all create problems while riding. No one should ever ride barefoot!
   

Enjoy being a healthier and safer family by abiding by proper safety rules and laws. If you as parents wear helmets, this will help show your children that safety is of the upmost importance to you and your family. Have a fun and safe bike ride.

For more bicycle safety tips, read bicycle safety or head injury.

Resources
www.nhtsa.dot.gov  
www.kidshealth.org