Helmet Safety

Tools

By Kathy Weber

Story Published: Apr 30, 2009 at 6:22 PM MST

Story Updated: May 1, 2009 at 6:09 AM MST

BILLINGS - Aside from car wrecks, bicycles are tied to more childhood injuries than any other consumer product.

Nearly 70% of bicyclist deaths happen between May and October. It's estimated that two-thirds of fatal head injuries could be prevented by wearing a helmet.

Amy Goffena, Billings Clinic Injury Prevention Coordinator and Registered Nurse says head injuries can cause life long damage ranging from physical setbacks to unpredictable emotional changes. Goffena says fatal head injuries are tragic because they are largely preventable.

"We have young people that die from head injuries every year and a $8-dollar helmet can help save you a long life of pain."

Experts say its important helmets are properly secured with straps just below the ears and securely fastened under the chin with just enough slack to allow for one or two fingers to slip through.

Also, Goffena says it's important to use activity-specific helmets because they are designed to protect areas most prone to injury in certain accidents. For more tips, click here.

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