Warmer weather is upon us, which means outdoor activities for families. A popular one is bike riding. In order to be safe, we need to remember to wear proper protective gear.
The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute has some great information posted on their website. Prices for helmets can go as high as $200, but BHSI says WalMart and Target sell models for around $8 that meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission standards and requirements. Some important things to look for when buying a helmet include a rounded, smooth exterior with no snag points, not a lot of vents because more vents=less padding, and make sure it fits the child properly. The commission also reminds you to wear elbow and knee pads for safety.
Katie Dixon, R.N., is the clinical manager of pediatric services for Rainbow Rapidcare, at St. John West Shore Hospital in Westlake, Ohio. Dixon says she sees far too many serious injuries that could have been prevented if the child would have been wearing a helmet. Dixon says for example horrible face lacerations, broken jaws, and even severe head trauma, all preventable or less serious if a helmet is worn.
If mom or dad is going along for the ride, and want to take baby brother or sister in a carrier on the back of their bike, the CPSC has a recall for you.
The Schwinn Deluxe Bicycle Child Carrier is being recalled because if the seat is not fully seated on the rack, the plastic guide tabs on the carrier can break. If these tabs break, it could cause the seat to fall off, which poses serious risk of injury to the child in the seat. The seat is gray plastic, with a blue rubber back. Model number sw571t, sold in department stores and discount stores for about $50. The company that manufactures the seat has received five reports of children being injured.
So stay safe and have fun!!
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