HOUSTON -- Summer vacation will mean more time for children to ride bikes, but are parents up to the challenge of keeping them safe?

In Houston, approximately 30 percent of children wear safety helmets when riding bicycles, almost 10 percent lower than the national average. The low percentage is despite a city ordinance requiring all bike riders under 18 years old to wear a helmet, including children in sidecars or carriers.

"I would give (Houstonians) a failing grade. Nationally, 41 percent of children are wearing bike helmets. In Houston, it was 31.9 percent," said Susan Hirtz with Texas Children's Hospital. "It's a head injury that kills kids and causes permanent disability."

The low number of children using bike helmets could lead to tragedy, according to doctors.

"A fall as little as 2 feet can cause a skull fracture or traumatic brain injury," Hirtz said. "Helmets are 85 percent effective in preventing head injury."

Parents' vigilance and an approved helmet are all that is needed to prevent a serious accident waiting to happen.

Hospital officials recommended the following safety tips:

The pointed end of the helmet goes in the back.
The chin straps should be snug under the chin, and the buckle is under the ear.
No more than two fingers should fit between the space between the eyebrow and the helmet.

Adults can also help out by using helmets themselves to set a good example for children.

More Information:

Houston Helmet Law
Texas Children's Hospital: Bicycle Safety Month