(Madison County, NY \u2013 June 2013) It\u2019s bicycle season, which means it\u2019s time to prepare the kids in your family for a safe summer on their bike.<\/p>\n
Does your child have a bike helmet that fits properly? If not, stop by the Bike Helmet Giveaway on Thursday, June 20 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at ZEMS Ice Cream and Mini Golf, 135 James St. in Canastota for a free helmet and fitting.<\/p>\n
The Madison County Health Department, Madison County Sheriff\u2019s Office, and Canastota Police Department are teaming up to help families provide a helmet for their children who need one. Helmets are available thanks to Fidelis Care and the Safe Kids Upstate NY Coalition, led by Upstate Golisano Children\u2019s Hospital while supplies last.<\/p>\n
Brain injuries are usually the most serious injuries a bicycle rider will sustain. Helmets prevent many of these injuries or reduce their severity. Did you know that when your head hits the ground in a crash, your skull stops, but your brain continues to travel? The impact of the brain against the skull bruises and damages delicate brain tissue. This often results in lifelong changes in the way you think, act, feel, and move. Helmets absorb the shock of the impact, and prevent or reduce the severity of the crash between the brain and the skull. This is why it\u2019s important to protect your brain every time you ride.<\/p>\n
Remember, by law, all bicyclists under the age of 14 are required to wear approved bicycle helmets when bicycling or riding as passengers on bicycles in New York State. It\u2019s safest for bicyclist of all ages to wear a helmet to protect their brain. When you\u2019re riding, head out with a helmet.<\/p>\n