Cyclists can expect to crash in their lifetime while riding a bicycle. Head injuries cause 75 percent of the 700 annual bicycle deaths. Medical research shows that bike helmets can prevent 85 percent of cyclists’ head injuries.

Cyclists always need a helmet wherever they ride. Even a lowspeed fall on a bicycle path can cause significant injury.

Helmets are for all ages. California law requires helmets to be worn buy all riders and skaters under the age of 18. Everyone should wear helmets when riding or skating—skateboards too. The local law enforcement agencies always wear helmets when they ride.

Make sure the helmet fits to get all the protection. A good fit means level on the head, touching all around, comfortably snug but not tight. The helmet should not move more than about an inch in any direction, and must not pull off.

The helmet must stay on the cyclist’s head. The helmet needs a strong strap and buckle. If it comes off or slips enough to leave large areas of the head unprotected, adjust the straps or try another helmet. Keep the strap comfortably snug when riding.

When purchasing a helmet, pick white or a bright color to enhance visibility. Always check inside the helmet for a U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission sticker.

Avoid a helmet with points sticking out that may snag, a squared-off shell, inadequate vents, excessive vents, an extreme “aero” shape, dark colors, thin straps, complicated adjustments or a rigid visor that could snag in a fall.

Replace any helmet after a crash. Impacts crush portions of the interior foam form, although no damage may be visible. Helmets need to be carefully examined for marks, cracks or dents.

Most manufacturers recommend automatic replacement after five to 10 years.

The American Society for Testing of Materials standards for biking and inline skating are identical, but aggressive skating and skateboard helmets have their own ASTM standard. They are designed for multiple impacts with lesser impact severity than the intense impact often related to a bike crash. Skateboard helmets may not handle bicycle impacts. Do not use a skate helmet for bicycling unless it has a CPSC sticker.

Enjoy the warm weather and riding a bicycle, but be safe by wearing the proper bicycle helmet.

This story is provided by the Moorpark Police Department.