Helmet Safety Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue urges you to wear a helmet whenever you bike or skate.  Each year bicycling injuries cause almost 1,000 deaths and over 500,000 hospital emergency room visits. In addition, last year one in every 150 skaters visited a hospital emergency room. The most common cause of death and injury is head injury. According to injury prevention experts, the use of a helmet will reduce the risk of head injury by 85% and the risk of brain injury by 88%. Do YOU wear a helmet while biking, rollerblading or skateboarding? Oregon Law Oregon Law mandates that all youths under 16 years of age must wear a bicycle helmet.  Kids aren't the only ones that need a helmet though!  Adults should set a good example by always wearing a helmet. Purchasing a Bike Helmet 1.   Look for helmets that have a CPSC certification seal.  This ensures that the helmet has been tested and is approved for protection. 2.   Helmets come in many different styles and sizes.   Select one that fits well prior to any adjustments and is attractive to the user (he or she will be more likely to wear it).  Many helmets come with adjustment pads for a more comfortable and secure fit. 3.  Buy a helmet that fits NOW - helmets are not a safety device that you "grow into". 4.  A helmet should be replaced following a crash or every couple of years. Proper Fit A good helmet fit is as important as wearing a helmet! Size Measure your head for approximate size. Try the helmet on to ensure it fits your head comfortably without rocking side to side. Sizing pads can be used to adjust the fit to different head shapes. Mix or match sizing pads for the best fit. Position The helmet should sit level on the head so that the forehead is covered within two finger widths of the eyebrow. Buckles The helmet should sit level on the head so that the forehead is covered within two finger widths of the eyebrow. Side Straps Adjust the slider on both straps to form a "V" shape under, and slightly in front of, the ears. Chin Strap Roll the rubber band towards the slider. Buckle up! Starting loose, while holding the buckle, pull the strap tight. No more than one or two fingers should fit under the strap. Does Your Helmet Fit Right? Open mouth wide....BIG YAWN. The helmet should pull down on the head! If not, tighten the chin strap. Does your helmet rock back more than two fingers above the eyebrows? If so, unbuckle, shorten the front strap by moving the slider forward. Buckle, retighten the chin strap, and test again. Does your helmet rock forward into your eyes? If so, unbuckle, tighten the back strap by moving the slider back toward the ear. Buckle, retighten the chin strap, and test again. Last But Not Least... Roll the rubber band down to the buckle. All four straps must go through the rubber band and be close to the buckle to prevent the buckle from slipping.