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Helmet and Scooter Safety

Download Print Version | Download Spanish Print Version

Children should wear a helmet while they are riding on their
bikes, scooters, skateboards or in-line skates. Helmets protect the head and brain from getting hurt. They are like “seatbelts” for your head.

Look for a helmet with a CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) sticker inside to show that it has been safety tested and approved.
   
Choose a helmet with a round, smooth plastic outer shell.
   
The helmet should sit low on the forehead, about 2 fingers above the eyebrows.
   
The fit of the helmet should feel snug, but not tight.
   
The front and back straps should form the letter “v” just below the ears.
   
Only one finger should fit between the chinstrap and the chin.
   
The helmet should not move more than ½ inch in any direction.
   
Use knee and elbow pads when riding scooters.
   
Do not use wristguards when riding anything with handlebars, such as bicycles and scooters. (It is hard to grip the handlebars when wearing wristguards).
   
Stay away from streets and surfaces with water, speed bumps, sand and gravel.
   
By law in California, everyone age 17 years and under must wear a helmet while bicycling, riding a scooter, skateboard, roller skates and in-line skates..


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