Universal Bicycle Helmet Use Recommended by Emergency Physicians

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) has recommended that:

• All bicyclists wear a properly fitted Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)-approved bicycle helmet.
• Emergency physicians inform patients and parents of the importance of wearing a bicycle helmet and the dangers of riding without a helmet.
• Retail and rental bicycle outlets have available low-cost CPSC-approved helmets for bicyclists.
• Helmet manufacturers provide educational materials that emphasize the advantages of protective headgear.
• State and local governments enact legislation requiring universal helmet use.
• Community coalitions be developed to promote bicycle safety training, including helmet use.
• The popular media depict helmet use among all bicyclists.

These recommendations were reaffirmed by the ACEP Board of Directors in September 2005.

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