Ride Safe.
The world has learnt a lot over the centuries and probably one of the most significant advances in the modern era is safety. We are encouraged, expected and trained to work safely in our homes and have standards and recommendations in place where ever we turn. All for good reason, there is nothing more important than safe guarding human life.
This is also true for riding bikes and as responsible parents this safety culture starts with us. Encourage your child to always ride his trike, scooter and bike with the correct protection will foster a safe centred approach to all they do going forward.
All helmets sold by retailers meet the country of sales standards set down by government which is usually US; CPSC Standard, UK/Europe; CEN standard, AU/NZ; AS/NZS 2063
If you find helmet without one of these standards in place don't risk it. Sizing of helmets is an important part of how protected the child will be, check the size, measure their heads and ensure the correct fit. Kids love dressing up so why not let them choose some protective gloves and pad sets they will feel cool and you will know you have done the best you can to protect them when they fall off and they will fall off.
Below are some alarming statistics on bike injuries and fatalities from studies carried out over time. From these statistics it is clear that protective equipment helps and is a must have for when we are out and about on our bikes.
Ride safe and happy cycling from the Jestomic team
Statistics from the Children's Safety Network June, 2009
(Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute)
Bicycle injuries and deaths affect children and young people more often than any other age group.
Young cyclists are more likely than adult cyclists to die of head injuries, most of which are caused by motor vehicle collisions.
Statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Fatality Facts: Bicycles - 2008
Bicycle Deaths by Helmet Use
1994-2006
Year | No Helmet | Helmet | Total* Num |
---|---|---|---|
1994 | 776 (97%) | 19 (2%) | 796 |
1995 | 783 (95%) | 34 (4%) | 828 |
1996 | 731 (96%) | 27 (4%) | 761 |
1997 | 785 (97%) | 23 (3%) | 811 |
1998 | 741 (98%) | 16 (2%) | 757 |
1999 | 698 (93%) | 42 (6%) | 750 |
2000 | 622 (90%) | 50 (7%) | 689 |
2001 | 616 (84%) | 60 (8%) | 729 |
2002 | 589 (89%) | 54 (8%) | 663 |
2003 | 535 (85%) | 58 (9%) | 626 |
2004 | 602 (83%) | 87 (12%) | 722 |
2005 | 676 (86%) | 77 (10%) | 784 |
2006 | 730 (95%) | 37 (5%) | 669 |
2007 | 646 (92%) | 50 (7%) | 699 |
2008 | 653 (91%) | 58 (8%) | 714 |
*Total includes other and/or unknowns. BHSI Note: cause of death may or may not have been head injury.