Tips
- Choose the right kind of helmet for the specific sport or transportation activity
- Don't wear a hat, bandana, hair clip, or ponytail under a helmet
- A thin fleece toque under a hockey or ski helmet is ok
- Store helmets away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place
- Don’t use a second-hand helmet
- Never use a bike helmet that has been in a crash, even if you can’t see any damage
- Replace a helmet at least every five years after the manufacturing date or if you see any damage like cracks, worn or torn straps
- When you shake your head, your helmet should stay put and feel comfortably snug.
Finding a helmet that fits
All helmets fit differently. Below are tips for making sure your helmet fits right.
Bicycle Helmets
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Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:
Two fingers distance from helmet to eyebrow

V-shape straps around each ear

One finger between chin and fastened strap

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Hockey helmets
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Put the helmet on so that it is not tilting backward or forward. Then check the following:
One finger between the chinstrap and chin

One finger distance from helmet to eyebrow

Helmet does not move

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Recommended helmets for different activities
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Activity
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Recommended Helmet
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Type of Protection
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Certification (Canadian, US, European)
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Bicycling & Non-motorized scooters
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Bicycle helmet
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Single impact
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CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell
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In-line or roller skating
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Bicycle / in-line skating or skateboard helmet
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Mostly single impact
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CSA, CPSC, ASTM or Snell
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BMX cycling
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BMX helmet
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Single/ Multi impact
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ASTM or CPSC
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Skateboarding
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Skateboard or bicycle helmet
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Single/Multi impact
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ASTM, Snell, CEN, CSA, CPSC, or ASTM
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Ice hockey/ skating
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Hockey helmet
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Multi impact
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CSA
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Skiing & Snowboarding
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Ski helmet
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Single impact
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Snell, ASTM, or CSA
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Sledding/tobogganing
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Hockey or ski helmet
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Single / Multi impact
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CSA, CPSC or Snell
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The instructions and table above are adapted with permission from Ottawa Public Health. For educational and non-commercial purposes only.
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