Biking Safety-Why You Need To Wear A Helmet

People in large cities of the world are increasingly becoming aware of the damage to environment because of our use of vehicles. To do their bit in fighting air and noise pollution, some have taken to cycling in a big way. Some cycle to work and some ride to the super market. Some CEO's are setting an example by riding to work on a certain day of the week. People who want to shed some weight make a daily trip to the park or cruise around a few blocks in their neighborhood on their bikes. Increased awareness makes people take actions that will save them and give them good health. So also with safety guidelines while riding a bike.

3 GOLDEN CHOICES

If riding is a pleasure for you, make sure you adhere to all the guidelines pertaining to safety. Whether you ride on city roads or go mountain biking, Rule no. 1 says, ALWAYS Wear A Helmet. Donning a head gear such as a helmet is an absolute must while riding a bike. Make it a habit to reach for the helmet before you get on a bike. And strap it in place. Those who threw caution to the winds have ended up dead or severely disabled due to head injuries. And this includes children. This is not to scare you from getting onto your bike for a ride, but taking into the safety aspects for a joyful, and carefree ride.

Studies have shown that 74-85% of all bike related head injuries could have been prevented by proper use of a helmet. Helmet, as mentioned earlier, is therefore the No.1 among protective gear while riding a bike.

Now let us check out the 3 golden rules:

1. Invest in a good helmet. Never compromise on the quality. A second hand helmet could be cracked or weakened from over-use. Make sure it fits correctly. Adjust the side straps first and then the chin strap when the buckle should sit over the centre of the chin. There should be no room between the top of your head and the helmet and should be secure at the bottom of the chin without any excess strap.
2. Make a habit of wearing the helmet even before you get onto your bike everytime, even if it is to the super market next door. Children should be made to don their helmet even when riding to the friend next door. Not just wearing the helmet but strapped right, because if you happen to fall, the helmet is most likely to be thrown off and your head will be open to injury. Some accidents have occurred this way, leaving the biker seriously injured. An incentive to every child who dislikes the idea would be to use some metallic stickers or personalized glow-in-the dark stickers.
3. Apart from wearing a quality helmet, you can choose to wear additional protective gear such as gloves, knee-pads and elbow pads. The pads, although not necessary, while riding on turf or grass, but a fall on a concrete pathway, for example, can cause permanent damage to the elbow or knee or both. Wearing gloves adds grip to the handlebars and give cushioning effect when falling down.

Taking extra precautions to enjoy the sport of their choice, keeps one in good condition to enjoy the pleasures of biking for a long time. Parents need to inculcate good riding habits so that their children will continue to ride safe.