Will bicycle helmets meeting CPSCs bicycle helmet safety standard protect young children?
Young children on bicycles suffer a higher proportion of head injuries than older bicyclists. Under CPSC’s new standard, bicycle helmets for children ages 1 to 5 cover a larger portion of the head than helmets for older persons, thus providing additional protection. All young children should wear a bicycle helmet, whether they are riding bicycles, tricycles, or are passengers on a parent’s bicycle. Never carry a child under age 1 on your bicycle. How can I tell if my bicycle helmet fits properly? The helmet should fit comfortably and securely. It should be worn so that it is level on the head (not tilted back on the crown or pulled low over the forehead). You should not be able to move the helmet in any direction, back-to-front or side-to-side. The chin strap should be securely fastened. If needed, the helmet’s sizing pads can help improve the fit.
