What can childrens services do to ensure helmets fit individual children and that they are kept free from head lice?
Many children’s services have children aged 2-5 years who may be riding wheeled toys and it is important that each child wears a helmet that fits their head correctly (link to helmet wearing FS). A good idea is to buy three different sizes of helmets in three different colours. Children soon get to know which coloured helmet is the right size for their head. To keep helmets free from head lice the US Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute recommends vacuuming and wiping out helmets regularly. Wearing anything under a helmet such as a hat or cap reduces the helmet’s effectiveness. It is essential to keep helmets clean and regularly check for frayed straps or other damage inside or outside the helmet. Damaged helmets must be replaced as they are no longer effective.