Helmet Safety
Stay Smart. Wear a Helmet!
In Ontario, it is mandatory for anyone under the age of 18 to wear a certified helmet while riding a bicycle (Highway Traffic Act).
It is also mandatory for children aged 10 and under or weak skaters of any age, to wear a certified multi-impact helmet at all city of Ottawa public skating sessions at indoor arenas.
Helmets are recommended for all ages while taking part in recreational activities like skateboarding, rollerblading, biking, sledding, skating, skiing and snowboarding.
How helmets protect your head
Helmets prevent serious brain and head injuries by absorbing the force from a fall or hit to the head. There are many types of helmets. Most helmets fit into one of the following categories:
Single Impact (example: bicycle helmets) – designed to protect against ONE impact; Must be replaced after a crash or hard hit, even if it does not appear to have any damage
Multi Impact (example: hockey helmets) – designed to protect against more than one impact; Must be replaced when you see damage
Multi Sport – does not mean multi impact but that the helmet is approved for more than one activity. Check the manufacturer’s label for the list of activities for which the helmet can be worn safely
Note: Always check the manufacturer’s label for an expiration date and replace as required. Hockey helmets expire 5 years from the date of manufacture
What to look for, when buying a helmet
Check for the certification sticker – found on the inside or outside of the helmet
Buy a helmet that fits now not one to grow into
Never buy a used helmet
Choosing the right helmet
Activity | Recommended Helmet | Type of Protection | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
Bicycling & | Bicycle helmet | Single impact | CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell |
In-line skating | Bicycle helmet/in-line skating or | Mostly single impact | CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell |
BMX cycling | BMX helmet | Multi impact | ASTM F-1492 |
Skateboarding | Skateboard or select bicycle helmet | Single/Multi impact | ASTM F-1492, Snell-94, CEN, |
Ice hockey/ skating | Hockey helmet | Multi impact | CSA |
Skiing & Snowboarding | Ski helmet | Single impact | Snell or CPSC |
Sledding/tobogganing | Hockey or ski helmet | Hockey helmet – multi impact | CSA, CPSC or Snell |
How to fit a helmet
Bicycle helmets
Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:
Two fingers distance from helmet to eyebrow
V-shape straps around each ear
One finger between chin and fastened strap
Shake your head up and down, and side to side. Your helmet should stay in place and feel comfortably snug.
Hockey helmets
Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:
One finger between the chinstrap and chin
One finger distance from helmet to eyebrow
Helmet does not move
Shake your head up and down, and side to side. Your helmet should stay in place and feel comfortably snug.
Other sport helmets
- Make sure the helmet is level on the head and not leaning forward or backward
- Adjust side and chin straps according to the manufacturer instructions
- Shake your head up and down and side to side. Your helmet should stay in place and feel comfortably snug
Instructions and illustrations provided by Thinkfirst.