In 2017, the number of people injured by not wearing a bike helmet was 51,000, enough people to fill Nationwide Arena in Columbus 2½ times.
To help prevent injuries and save lives, the Bowling Green Bicycle Safety Commission is joining the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics in a statewide effort to remind children to “Put a Lid on It!” during the month of May – Ohio Bike Helmet Safety Awareness Month. And, this month is not just for kids. Parents who model wearing their bike helmet increase the likelihood of a child wearing their helmet, so this month is not only to get children to wear their helmets, but also to allow them to see adults in all walks of life wearing their helmets proudly.
Bowling Green was one of several local communities to receive youth bike helmets for distribution; 144 helmets will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Those in need of a youth helmet may pick one up at the Bowling Green Community Center during regular operating hours. Sizes and quantities are limited. Bicycle safety messages and directions for how to properly fit the helmet are included with each helmet.
The National Transportation Safety Board is recommending that all 50 states enact laws requiring bicyclists to wear helmets to stem an increase in bicycle deaths on U.S. roadways. According to the Ohio AAP:
• 75% of bike-related fatalities would be prevented with a helmet.
• Helmet use can reduce the risk of head injury by 85% and severe brain injury by 88%.
• Apart from the automobile, bicycles are tied to more childhood injuries than any other consumer product, including trampolines, ladders, and swimming pools.
