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Print7 Healthcast: Bike Helmet Safety
Each year 900 people die in bike-related accidents and over half of them are caused by head injuries. And while bike helmets can help save lives, a new study out today says, simply wearing one may not be enough.
They come in all shapes and sizes and are a biker's best accessory. But bike helmets are not just for show.
Dr. Shannon Scott-Vernaglia, Mass General Hospital for Children
"We know that we can significantly decrease bike related injuries by helmets up to 85 percent, those injuries go down if the helmet is worn properly."
The problem -- an overwhelming majority of kids and parents are not wearing them properly. In fact, a new study done by a Falmouth pediatrician found that 96 percent of patients are getting it wrong. Which can lead to serious injuries.
"We worry about concussions, which are very common in children, but we worry injuries that could land children in the intensive care unit with significant long term disabilities."Dr. Shannon Scott-Vernaglia
To protect yourself, researchers suggest being a bike helmet MVP. As the folks at Ace Wheelworks in Somerville showed us, "M" means "move" it down over the forehead.
"You want it to be sitting straight and on the top of your head you don't want it to be pushed back at all."Colin Eggleton, Ace Wheelworks
"V" is the way the straps should fit over the ear
"Center the straps so the buckles here fall down right below the ear just like this."Colin Eggleton
Lastly, "P" is for "pull" the chinstraps snug, so the helmet won't slide off. Remember mom and dad, the same helmet tips apply to adults.
Still not sure you're getting it right? Experts say as your local bike store or ask your pediatrician and remember, helmets are not just for bikes, they should be worn for skateboards and inline skates as well.
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