In Queensland, wearing a helmet while riding a bike or personal mobility device is not just a good idea, it’s the law and these laws are in place to keep us safe.

RACQ Education Officer Caitlin Delaney said helmets were designed to significantly reduce the impact of severe head injuries.

“A fall can happen to anyone while riding, no matter how skilled they are or how slow they are riding,” Ms Delaney said.

“It’s not only often the law to wear a helmet but it’s also vital to reduce your risk of a potential head injury.

“It’s equally important, if you are a parent or carer, to be a role model to your child by always wearing a helmet correctly.”

Establishing a routine with your child before they ride can help to build positive safety behaviour.

“Starting a routine early as well as choosing helmets which are comfortable and age-appropriate will reinforce positive behaviour,” Ms Delaney said.

“Even letting your child have a say in picking their favourite design or colour is beneficial, so they feel more comfortable wearing one.

“The two-finger rule is a great technique you can follow to ensure a helmet fits both correctly and comfortably.” 

The ‘two-finger rule’

Use the two-finger rule to make sure the helmet fits correctly and is comfortable for your child. Show them how to take their index and middle finger and place them horizontally above their eyebrow arch. When their helmet fits correctly, it should sit on the top of their two fingers. Then, show them how to take the same two fingers and put them underneath their chin, pointing inwards. When their straps are adjusted correctly, the straps should sit on the two fingers.