HELMET USE

Students in grades 3rd through 6th area allowed to ride their bicycles/skateboards/scooters/skates to and from the campus. All forms of transportation are to be walked on and off campus, bikes parked in the bicycle racks provided, and other forms of transportation checked in the classroom to be housed for the day. A permission form must be filled out and returned to the office prior to your child riding to school.

Helmet Use and the Law: Effective January 1, 1994, all persons under age 18 are required by California law to wear an approved helmet when cycling on streets, bikeways, or other public bicycle paths or trails. This includes both drivers and passengers. Helmets are required to be properly fitted and fastened. They must meet American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or Snell Memorial Foundation safety standards and display a safety-approved label.

Beginning January 1, 1995, a first offense results in a warning and subsequent offenses each result in a maximum fine of $25. Parents are jointly responsible for fines imposed on minor children.

Helmet Tips: Helmets are available from sporting goods stores and bike retailers and start at an approximate cost of $25. Newer models include reflective tape for improved visibility.

A properly fitting helmet:

• Covers the forehead.
• Rests level on the head and doesn’t rock to either side.
• Doesn’t interfere with vision and hearing.
• Fits snugly when the strap is properly fastened.
• Provides adequate ventilation for comfort.

A helmet should be replaced if it has been struck in a crash, even if there is no visible sign of damage.

To encourage helmet use among children:

• Begin the helmet habit early.
• Allow them to select their own helmets.
• Consistently require them to use their helmets.
• Praise and reward helmet use.
• Serve as role model.