Please wear a helmet…

We bike almost every day. We bike mostly on pathways within the city, occasionally we will cross a road or spend a short amount of time on a road. We ALWAYS wear a helmet and always have a flashing light – especially on the back of our bikes. We are moving fairly quickly and when we are on the road, we use bike lanes or we behave like a vehicle.
Recently, I have noticed lots of families riding bikes, usually on the trail but, sometimes on city streets. Families cycling is an excellent idea. I often see parents riding with their kids WITHOUT helmets. Please, a request to parents – after you have carefully fitted your child with a bike helmet, please put one on your own head. The bike helmet and the flashing light are the easiest way to protect yourself on a bike ride. No matter where you are cycling, accidents can happen. We have had people step out in front of us, lawn tractors and city vehicles crowd us on the trails and cars back out in front of us. Don’t take chances. When they tell you to put the oxygen mask on yourself first, there is a reason, put your own bike helmet on and then put one on your child.

Here is a great episode we did on cycling with Nick and Sebastian – they also emphasize the importance of helmets and lights (and bike shorts)….

https://noroom4phonies.com/2022/07/30/the-cycling-edition-with-nick-and-sebastian/

…and a great episode on cycling with our favourite bike shop….Downtown Bikehounds in Hamilton, Ontario

https://noroom4phonies.com/2023/02/14/get-your-cycle-on-with-the-downtown-bike-hounds/

Absolutely, cycle with your family – just be safe – wear a helmet and be a great role model for your kids. I am proud to say that my “kids” – both in their twenties NEVER ride without a helmet as do all their friends. It is SO simple, JUST DO IT.

For those who want some more information…see below…

1. Helmets Reduce the Risk of Serious Injury or Death

Falls from bikes and collisions with cars may cause serious injury or death. Wearing a helmet reduces this risk.
A study published in 2018 found that bike helmets reduced:

• Head injuries by 48%
• Serious head injuries by 60%
• Traumatic brain injuries by 53%
• Injuries to the face by 23%
• The number of seriously injured or killed cyclists by 34%

2. Helmets Absorb Some of the Energy Produced by Impact

Helmets are designed to absorb some of the power of an impact. Whether your head hits a road, tree or vehicle, you’ll experience less harm. Helmets have hard exteriors, but the insides are soft, to cushion people’s heads. They can’t prevent concussion but may prevent serious brain injury. “Concussions occur because the speed of impact makes the brain move within the skull,” Dr. Crutchfield says. “No helmet can stop the force associated with concussion, but it should reduce injuries.”

3. Helmets Increase Your Visibility on the Road

A brightly colored helmet may make you stand out more. Drivers may notice you from farther away, then give you room when passing by. “By choosing a red, pink or fluorescent green helmet, you’ll catch drivers’ attention,” Dr. Crutchfield says. “Something colorful and fun that you love wearing makes you more visible.” If you ride or skate at night, choose a helmet with reflectors. You’ll make it easier for drivers to spot you from a distance.

4. Helmets Provide Some Protection From the Elements

Some people need to ride their bikes, rain or shine, to get to work. Others are diehard exercise enthusiasts who never skip workouts because of the weather. Helmets may help to protect you from different types of weather:

• In the rain, helmets may keep your head drier
• On rainy days, the visor may help keep rain out of your eyes
• On sunny days, the visor may help keep the sun out of your eyes

5. Adults Who Wear Helmets Set Good Examples for Kids

Do you eat vegetables and say “please” and “thank you” around your kids? Wearing a helmet is another way to model good behavior. Kids listen to what parents say, but what they see may have greater impact. Wearing a helmet when you bike, skateboard or skate together sends the right message. “Tell your kids that helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment,” Dr. Crutchfield says. “Remembering to wear yours when you ride together should encourage your child to follow suit.”