Sunday, June 05, 2011
Protect your head this summer – get a helmet!
Ottawa – This morning, Mayor Jim Watson proclaimed June 5, 2011 as Helmet Day in the City of Ottawa. The proclamation was presented to Dr. Michael Vassilyadi, Director of ThinkFirst Ottawa Chapter, to emphasize the importance of wearing proper head gear while being active.
“We are very fortunate in Ottawa to have an environment that is well-suited to cycling and in-line skating,” said Mayor Watson. “We are encouraging all residents to purchase an appropriate helmet before enjoying their favourite summer activities.”
“Whether you are riding your bicycle or strapping on in-line skates, it is important to take precautions,” said Capital Ward Councillor David Chernushenko, a member of the Ottawa Board of Health. “Wearing a properly-fitted helmet can keep you and your children out of the emergency room this summer.”
“During Alcatel-Lucent Sunday Bikedays, like with any of the National Capital Commission’s (NCC) popular programs, safety is paramount,” said Marie Lemay, Chief Executive Officer at the NCC. “We commend the City on its continued efforts in reaching out to the community to raise awareness of helmet safety and preventing head injuries.”
A few things to remember before you get rolling:
- Look for the CSA or CPSC certification on the bicycle helmet before you buy it.
- Use the 2 V 1 rule: To provide maximum protection, the helmet should fit level and square on the head, and the front should be 2 fingers distance from the helmet to eyebrows. The straps should be adjusted to meet just below the ear in a V shape, and fastened comfortably. The helmet should have a snug fit only allowing 1 finger to fit between the chin strap and the chin.
- Get the right helmet for the sport you take part in.
- Bicycle helmets must be worn by all cyclists who are under the age of 18. OPH recommends that all residents wear helmets to protect themselves from serious injuries.
“Every year, approximately 5,700 children and youth under the age of 20 visit Ottawa emergency rooms for head injuries and of these 400 are hospitalized,” said Dr. Isra Levy, Medical Officer of Health. “Sport and recreational activities represent the second leading cause of head injuries among children and youth.”
“A fall can result in a serious head injury causing a devastating disability, or even death,” said Dr. Vassilyadi. “It is estimated that each dollar invested in a helmet saves $30 in social costs. For example, bicycle helmets can prevent up to 88 per cent of brain injuries when used properly.”
In April 2010, City Council directed OPH to work with community stakeholders to develop a comprehensive community-based strategy that would raise awareness and promote helmet use among children and youth.
For more information about choosing and using the correct helmet, please visit ottawa.ca/health or call 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with OPH on Facebook and Twitter (@ottawahealth).
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