Cooperative Living September 2016 - 24

SafetySense
Are you using the
right safety helmet?
When trying on a given type of safety
helmet, it should fit snugly and may even
feel a bit too tight until it is correctly
in place.
W
e all know it's
important to wear
safety helmets when
engaging in many types of
sports and recreational
activities, but there's more to
purchasing a helmet than
just guessing at " small,
medium or large. "
Helmet sizes vary among
manufacturers and model
types, so start by measuring
the person's head at its largest
circumference - usually just
above the eyebrows in front.
Take the measurement more
than once to confirm you've
gotten the largest possible
number. When purchasing
a helmet, especially if
buying online, this information
will help if you need to
contact the manufacturer for
size equivalents.
Helmet
Safety
Tips
When trying on a given type
of safety helmet, it should fit
snugly and may even feel a bit
too tight until it is correctly in
place. Be sure the helmet sits
squarely on your head and is
not tilted back like a hat.
Remember, if the helmet is
too large, it can shift around
on your head when you least
want it to, let in noise from the
wind or, worst of all, not
correctly protect the wearer
during a crash!
Once the helmet is on your
head, check the fit a few ways
before fastening the straps:
* Any cheek pads should
touch both cheeks without
pressing uncomfortably.
* There should be no gaps
between the temples and
the brow pads.
* If the helmet has a neck
roll, it shouldn't push the
helmet away from the back
of the neck.
22 | Cooperative Living | September 2016
* For full-face helmets, press
on the chin piece. The
helmet or face shield
should not touch your
nose or chin. If it does, it
will surely do so at speed
from wind pressure.
With the helmet still on and
the straps securely fastened,
move it from side to side and
up and down with your hands.
If it fits correctly, your skin
should move as the helmet is
moved. You should feel as if a
slight, even pressure is being
exerted all over your head.
Remember, too, that a helmet
loosens up as the comfort liner
compresses through use. A
new helmet should be as tight
as you can comfortably wear it.
Now, with the chin strap still
securely fastened and your
head straight, try rolling the
helmet forward off your head.
You shouldn't be able to pull it
off. If you can, the helmet is
too big. Take off the helmet.
Does your head feel sore
anywhere? Are there any red
spots on your forehead?
Pressure points can be
uncomfortable and can
cause a headache after a long
ride, so be sure your helmet
isn't causing any. If it is,
choose the next-largest size
or try a different brand of
helmet. Human heads are not
all the same shape, and neither
are helmets.
If you are still unsure about
the helmet's fit, wear it around
the store for a short time to see
if it remains comfortable.
A helmet is an important
investment, no matter its price.
Be sure the one you choose is
the right one for you! 
Source: www.helmets.org
www.co-opliving.com
http://www.helmets.org http://www.co-opliving.com
Cooperative Living September 2016

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