Being physically active improves your health and well‑being and has benefits for people of all ages and abilities. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, increase energy, improve self‑esteem, and support better sleep. Activities such as cycling and other wheeled sports are fun, accessible ways to keep active, while also benefiting the environment by reducing traffic and contributing to cleaner air and healthier neighbourhoods.
It’s Your Head. Use It.
While being active is important, staying safe is just as important. A head injury can permanently change the way a child walks, talks, plays and thinks. Wearing a properly fitted helmet will help protect your head and reduce the risk of serious injury.
Children and youth under 18 are required by law to wear a helmet when cycling in Ontario. Toronto Public Health encourages all people participating in wheeled activities such as bicycling, e-biking, non-motorized scootering, inline skating/roller blading, and skateboarding to wear a properly fitted helmet, regardless of age. Wear a helmet and be a good role model for others!
Toronto Police Service: Bike Helmet Video
Educational video on bike helmet safety that
highlights how to fit bike helmets properly by
using the 2-V-1 rule.
Helmet Safety Video: Always Wear your Helmet
SickKids Hospital, Toronto Polices Services and the Toronto Catholic District School Board discuss the importance of always wearing a helmet.
Fitting a Helmet Properly
All helmets fit differently. Here are a few tips to help you properly fit a helmet.
For Bicycle Helmets
Bicycle helmets may also be appropriate for activities such as in-line skating, riding a non-motorized scooter, or using shoes with wheels. Always follow the manufacturer’s instruction regarding intended use.
Know the 2-V-1 rule.
“2”
Put the helmet level on the head, not tilting backward or forward.
Helmet should cover the top of the head and sit 2 finger-widths above your eyebrows.
Adjust the fit of the helmet by adding or repositioning the foam pads.
Move the dial or other fitting devices so it fits snug.
“V”
Side straps should meet to form a V below each ear.
If your helmet tilts back, tighten the front straps. If your helmet tilts forward, tighten the back straps.
“1”
Fit 1 finger between chin and fastened strap.
For All Other Sport Helmets
Put the helmet level on the head, not tilting backward or forward.
Adjust the side and chin straps according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
All helmets should fit close to your head. Shake your head up and down and side to side. The helmet should not move.
Types of Helmets
Each helmet is designed and built to handle different types of impact. It is important to choose the match the helmet to the activity.
Single Impact Helmets
These helmets are designed to protect the head from a single hard fall.
Helmets must be replaced after a crash or hard hit, even if there is no visible damage.
Examples include bicycle helmets (which may be used for bicycling, e-biking, in-line skating, riding a non-motorized scooter or when using shoes with wheels according to the manufacturer’s instructions), and ski or snowboard helmets.
Multi-Impact Helmets
Multi-sport helmets are designed to protect the head from more than one crash but must be replaced if there is any visible damage.
Examples include hockey helmets (which can be used for hockey, ice-skating and tobogganing), baseball, football, lacrosse and skateboarding.
Multi-Sport Helmets
Multi-sport helmets meet safety standards for more than one activity.
Be sure the multi-sport helmet clearly states what activity it has been tested for. If you are not sure, contact the manufacturer.
E-Bikes
E-bikes are permitted in Toronto where bicycles are permitted, subject to applicable laws and bylaws. In Ontario, e-bike riders must be at least 16 years of age, and are required to wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet. Choose a helmet that fits properly and meets a recognized safety standard.
How to Choose the Right Helmet
Helmets should be purchased according to the child’s age. If a child is under one year of age, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
Choose a brightly coloured and reflective helmet that will be easy for drivers and other road users to see.
Look for a helmet that fits comfortably and meets safety standards. An approved standards label certifies that the helmet has been tested by the manufacturer to meet established safety requirements.
Look for a Recognized Safety Certification Label
Choose a helmet with at least one recognized safety certification label such as:
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
ASTM International (ASTM)
American National Standard Institute (ANSI)
Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell)
European Committee for Standardization (EN/CEN)
Standards Australia (SA)
European Committee for Standardization (EN/CEN)
National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE)
British Standards Institute (BSI)
For more information on choosing the right helmet for your activity, visit Parachute Canada.
Purchase and Care
Never buy a used helmet.
Never use a bike helmet that has been in a crash, even if you can’t see any damage.
Replace a helmet:
When it no longer fits properly.
After five years, as the plastic of the helmet dries out and may become brittle.
If you see any damage like cracks, worn or torn straps.
When it no longer meets the current safety standards.
Do not store helmets in direct sunlight or in a hot vehicle.
Safer Helmet Use
Caregivers should help children practise putting on their helmet and check the fit each time. Know the 2-V-1 rule.
To prevent choking never let children wear a helmet on playground equipment.
Avoid putting stickers on a helmet. Stickers can interfere with the helmet’s ability to slide smoothly in the case of a crash. Stickers can also weaken the outer shell.
Do not wear a baseball cap, bandana, hair clip, or ponytail under a helmet, as it could change the way a helmet fits.
Be consistent. Follow a “No Helmet, No Bike” rule. Do the same for other activities/sports.
These helmets are designed to protect the head from a single hard fall.
Multi-sport helmets are designed to protect the head from more than one crash but must be replaced if there is any visible damage.