Monday, March 28, 2011

Health Tips for March 28

Health Tip: Everyone Should Wear a Bike Helmet

There should be no debate or argument in your home when it comes to wearing a bicycle helmet, experts say.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests how to encourage children to wear a helmet, avoiding a big battle:

  • Make wearing a helmet a habit, starting with a child's first tricycle ride.
  • Set an example for your child. Parents should always wear a helmet themselves.
  • Explain to your child why it's so important to wear a bike helmet.
  • Give your child plenty of praise, and maybe a little treat, for wearing a helmet.
  • Speak to other parents so your child's friends all wear helmets, too.

Health Tip: Make Sure Your Helmet Fits

Whether you're rollerblading, biking or skiing, a helmet can protect you from a deadly head injury.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says a helmet won't offer full protection, however, if it doesn't fit properly. The group offers these helmet-fitting suggestions:

  • Make sure you select a helmet that meets standards set by the Snell Memorial Foundation or the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  • Make sure the helmet fits snugly and doesn't slide in any direction.
  • The helmet should sit squarely on your head and be level, without tilting.
  • The helmet should include a chinstrap to hold it in place.

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