14 VITALITY Spring 2024 A helmet might save the day It saved my life” When Louis Harris, M.D., was in a bicycle accident 12 years ago, he broke his scapula, nine ribs and his left hand and had a collapsed lung. What he didn’t have was a brain injury, thanks to his bicycle helmet, which absorbed the force of the impact. “My trauma surgeon said it saved my life,” Dr. Harris says. “I keep the helmet in my office to show kids the protection it gives you.” Dr. Harris is a family physician at Bolivar Family Care Center and CMH’s chief medical information officer. Want an easy parenting win today? One of the easiest and most important ways to protect your child is by having them wear a helmet while on a bike. That also goes for other wheeled activities, like skateboarding and rollerblading. In general, it is important to avoid hits to the head. Any activity resulting in a bump, blow or jolt to the head can lead to a concussion, temporarily disrupting normal brain function. Helmets are designed to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injury in the event of a spill. While there is no concussion-proof helmet, the right helmet can protect against serious brain or head injury. Choosing the right helmet These tips will help you pick out the right gear for your child. Be sure it is a good fit. Bring your child when buying them a new helmet. Measure your child’s head and use the brand’s sizing chart to help find the right size. Ask your child how the helmet feels. It should be snug but not too tight, which can cause headaches. Do not add extra padding to the helmet if it is loose. Look at the labels. A helmet should have a label that lets you know it meets established safety standards. Take care of your helmet. Keep it clean, and store it properly. Regularly check the helmet for damage. You should replace your helmet within five years, unless the helmet manufacturer indicates otherwise. Once that helmet is damaged, you should replace it. That’s especially true of bike helmets. Experts recommend that you replace a helmet after it’s been in a crash, even if no damage is visible. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Consumer Product Safety Commission
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