Child bike helmets are the law

Kelsey Dewald

Kelsey Dewald, Public Health Practicum Student

Spring time is fast approaching. As the weather gets warmer, more children will be out and about on their bikes, but many people are unaware that anyone under the age of 18 is required—by law—to wear a helmet. This law is often ignored, and many children can be seen riding their bicycles without wearing a helmet. One reason could be because some parents and children simply don’t know about the law or why it was put into effect.


Understanding the importance of helmet and bike safety can greatly prevent the incidence of bicycle accidents and injuries. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of injury by up to 85 per cent. Even when children know they should be wearing helmets, many choose not to, thinking “it will never happen to me.” This has many parents wondering what they can do to increase their child’s interest in wanting to wear a helmet.

Here are some helpful tips to consider:

• Let your children choose their own helmet; they’ll be more likely to wear it if they picked it out.
• It’s important for parents to set a great example and role model good bike safety by also wearing a helmet. If your child sees you wearing yours, they’ll be more likely to wear theirs. 
• Make sure your child’s helmet fits correctly, is comfortable and provides for maximum safety. 
• Children’s heads come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to fit a helmet correctly. Follow these guidelines and the 2-V-1 rule to keep your child safe. 
• The edge of the helmet should be two finger widths from the individual’s eyebrow.
• A “V” shape should form with the straps around the individual’s ears.
• The helmet strap should be one finger width between the strap and the individual’s chin.

Learning the facts about bicycle safety and following the 2-V-1 guidelines helps make children more aware and keeps them safer when they’re out riding their bikes and enjoying a little physical activity.

For more information about bicycle and helmet safety, please contact the Population Health Promotion Program in Lethbridge at 403-388-6677, or email Health Promotion Facilitator Andrea Klassen at andrea.klassen@albertahealthservices.ca.

You can also learn more about bicycle and helmet safety by attending the upcoming Bike Rodeo at Lethbridge Children’s Festival, at the Exhibition Park, on April 12, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Kelsey Dewald is a Public Health Practicum Student from the University of Lethbridge with the Population Health Promotion Program in Lethbridge.