The most important organ in the body, the brain, is also one of the most fragile. Although the skull provides some natural protection, even a mild jolt to the head can result in bruising of the brain and tearing of nerves and blood vessels. Damaged brain cells do not heal like broken bones or torn muscles. When a child survives with a injury to the brain, paralysis, severe amnesia, slurred speech, depression and anxiety, and loss of motor skills can result.

A helmet is the simplest, most cost effective way to prevent bicycle related head injury, reducing the risk by as much as 88%.

Safety Tips

• Every time you ride – wear a bicycle helmet.
• Buy a bicycle that is the right size for the child, not one he or she will grow into.
• Learn the rules of the road and obey all traffic laws.

For a low cost bicycle helmet

Contact the Columbus Health Department at 614-645-6138 or contact us. Helmets are $10 each and come in a variety of sizes and colors.

For More Information

National Safe Kids  
The National SAFE KIDS Campaign is the only national non-profit organization only for the prevention of unintentional childhood injury — the number one killer of children ages 14 and under.

Related Programs and Services

Safe Communities Project