Insist your child wear a bicycle helmet

To keep children who ride bikes safe, parents should buy bicycle helmets and insist they are worn whenever children ride. Helmets help protect children from head injuries, the leading cause of injury-related deaths among children.

Each spring, you should make sure your child's helmet fits properly. Correct fit is essential. Use the "Eyes, Ears and Mouth" check:

1. Eyes check - Position the helmet on your child's head. When he or she looks up, your child should see the bottom rim of the helmet (one to two fingers above the eyebrows).
2. Ears check - Make sure the helmet straps form a "V" under your child's ears when buckled. The straps should fit snug, but comfortable.
3. Mouth check - Have your child open his or her mouth as wide as possible. Ask if your child feels the helmet hug his or her head. If not, tighten the straps.

Parents should buy and wear bicycle helmets as well. It is important for your safety and to set a good example for your child.

If your child does not want to wear a helmet, point out that athletes wear helmets for their protection. It also may be helpful if your child decorates his or her helmet.

Make certain helmets are approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and follow directions to ensure proper fit.