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Helmets save lives and prevent brain damage

By Michael Kaplen

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)  has issued a call urging the public to put helmets on as outdoor activities increase and temperatures warm up.

Helmets save lives and reduce the risk of brain injury, the nation's emergency physicians said today. They see firsthand the tragic consequences of people who don't wear them.

"People are riding bicycles, motorcycles and ATVs more often at this time of year," said Dr. Angela Gardner of the American College of Emergency Physicians. "Now is the time to get in the habit of wearing a certified safety helmet, because it only takes is one tragic crash to end your life or cause serious injuries to your brain that can alter your life forever."

Helmet use is the best way to reduce bicycle head injuries and fatalities from crashes. More than 300,000 children are treated in emergency departments with bike injuries every year and nearly two-thirds (70 percent) were because of head injuries that could have been prevented by wearing a helmet according the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Facts about Bicycle Helmet Use:

The ACEP recommends that bicycle riders wear helmets that meet or exceed the safety standards developed by the Consumer Product Safety Administration. A proper bike helmet should sit on top of the head in a level position and not rock forward and backward or side to side. Helmet straps must be buckled snugly, but not too tightly. Helmets are important for bicyclists of all ages because older riders represent more than three-quarters of bicycle deaths.

You can obtain more information on helmet safety or any other health related go to the emergency care for you web site.

Full post as published by Brain Injury News and Information on May 16, 2010 (boomark / email).