News Release Archive

HEALTH--STUDENTS REMINDED TO USE THEIR HEAD, WEAR A HELMET
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Students cycling to school this fall are reminded to use their
head and wear a helmet.

"Wearing a bicycle helmet is essential to ensure cyclists of all
ages enjoy a safe and healthy ride," said Health Minister Jim
Smith. "I encourage all Nova Scotians to use their head and
adhere to the bicycle helmet law."

Regulations to support Nova Scotia's bicycle helmet law came into
effect July 1, 1997, when the law became official. The
regulations state that a bicycle helmet must meet standard safety
specifications, have a smooth outer surface, be able to absorb
energy on impact, fit properly, be strongly attached to a chin
strap and not be damaged from use.

Only religious practices, a head measurement exceeding 64 cm in
circumference or medical reasons can exempt someone from the
bicycle helmet law. There have been two exemptions issued to date
for individuals with large head measurements and one for a
medical reason.

There is a minimum $25 fine for any adult who doesn't wear a
helmet. The fine also applies to parents who authorize or
knowingly permit their children to ride without a helmet.
Children riding in a trailer towed by a bicycle must also wear
helmets.

The Department of Health, together with the Department of
Business and Consumer Services, has produced a brochure outlining
specifics about the bicycle helmet law. The brochure, titled Use
Your Head. Wear a Helmet, is currently being sent to athletics
stores, sport and other related organizations as well at to
Access Nova Scotia offices for distribution. If you would like
copies for your group, please call 1-800-565-3611 or e-mail
helmets@gov.ns.ca.

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Contact: Sue McKeage
         Department of Health
         902-424-3581

ngr                   August 29, 1997 - 2:10 pm