Simply put, wear a helmet or risk a broken head

Injury to the head, including a broken head, is one of the main causes of death when riding a motorcycle or while performing other activities that require special protection to the head. Unfortunately, there are still many who are lazy to wear helmets when driving or other risky activities. Besides being used when driving, helmets or headgear should also be used during certain activities, such as when working at a mining site, doing construction work, transportation officers, firefighters, or when doing certain types of sports. Sports in question, such as rock climbing.

Avoid the Risk of Broken Head with the Right Helmet

The head is very susceptible to injury if it collides, so the function of the helmet is very important to protect it. According to research, using a helmet properly when doing risky activities, can reduce the risk of head injuries and brain injuries by up to 85%. The use of helmets in children is also very important, for example when he is a motorcycle passenger, or just playing bicycle. In order to avoid risks that could endanger lives, here are some guidelines for using helmets:

• Use a helmet labeled SNI (Indonesian National Standard)

In Indonesia, the obligation to use SNI helmets for motorcycle riders is in accordance with Law No. 22 of 2009 concerning Road Traffic and Transportation. A good standard helmet consists of four parts, namely a hard outer part, a soft inner part, a sweat-absorbing layer that comes in direct contact with the head, and a good retention or hook system on the chin.

• Choose a full face helmet

Do not sacrifice safety in order to look stylish with a helmet that does not meet safety standards. Choose a helmet with a glass cover or full face to protect the eyes from dust and rain. Non-standard helmets usually only cover a portion of the head and will not protect the head from collisions, let alone the risk of head breaking during an accident.

• Avoid buying a used helmet

Don't buy a used helmet to avoid the risk of damage. Make sure you always update your helmet at least every five years. Helmet quality tends to decrease over time and with frequency of use. Avoid modifying the helmet to make its function as a protective headgear disappear, such as adding spines or artificial horns to the helmet.

• Choose a helmet that fits in the head

The helmet you choose should be mounted snugly on the head, not too big or not too small. The front should be directly above the eyebrows. Make sure the helmet hook is not loose or attached to the chin. Also, avoid wearing broken or cracked helmets. Therefore, do not place the helmet in an unstable or vulnerable place causing it to fall.

• Routinely clean the helmet

Cleaning the helmet regularly can extend its age. Try to clean the helmet with warm water and mild detergent, but avoid soaking the helmet because it can change the inside surface. Store the helmet in a cool place and not exposed to direct sunlight, do not store it close to cleaning fluid, gasoline, or exhaust because over time the risk of damaging the helmet material.

For the sake of safety and to avoid the risk of head breaking, use a helmet and obey traffic signs. For other activities that require helmets, use according to the rules in force to prevent dangerous head injuries.