Windsor Hosts Helmet Giveaway to Boost Concussion Awareness

Dozens of young cyclists in Windsor, Ontario, received free bike helmets during a giveaway event aimed at raising awareness about concussions on September 30, 2023. Organized by the Brain Injury Association of Windsor & Essex (BIAWE), the initiative provided helmets and proper fittings to ensure the safety of local children.

Families gathered at the Assisted Living Southwestern Ontario building, where they were able to select helmets in various sizes and colors. According to Lisa Gaspar, a social worker and client service coordinator for BIAWE, many children lack access to properly fitting helmets. “We find that most kids actually don’t have helmets or don’t have helmets that fit them properly,” Gaspar explained. The event aimed to address this issue, making sure that each child left with a helmet that provided adequate protection.

Wearing a helmet is often considered the “first line of defense” against head injuries while biking. Proper fitting is crucial; the BIAWE suggests that two fingers should fit between the bottom of the helmet and a child’s eyebrows, the straps should sit snugly around the ears, and one finger should fit between the chin strap and the chin. Gaspar noted that financial barriers often prevent families from acquiring helmets, leading some to use ill-fitting or damaged ones. “If you’re falling and you hit your head, if your helmet isn’t fit properly, it’s not going to protect you to the full extent that it could,” she added.

Raising Awareness About Concussions

The event not only aimed to distribute helmets but also to highlight the importance of concussion awareness and support for youth with a history of head trauma. More than 100 helmets were available, reflecting the high demand for such safety equipment. Rachel Olsen, the executive director of BIAWE, emphasized the necessity of open communication between parents and children regarding head injuries. “If you hit your head, you have to tell your parents, your teacher, your coach. It’s really important that you get that intervention if you need it,” she said.

Recognizing the signs of a concussion is vital. According to BIAWE, symptoms may include difficulties thinking clearly, sleep disturbances, and physical issues such as dizziness or headaches. Olsen stressed the importance of seeking medical attention and following concussion protocols if a child shows any of these symptoms.

This initiative not only equipped Windsor’s youth with protective gear but also served as a platform to educate families about the long-term impacts of head injuries. By fostering awareness and promoting safety measures, BIAWE hopes to mitigate the risks associated with biking and contribute to the well-being of the community.