The Onondaga County Traffic Safety Program coordinates this program for the Onondaga County Bicycle Safety Coalition. OCBSC is dedicated to bicycle safety and helmet use. The law in Onondaga County requires youth between the ages of 1 and 18 to wear a helmet while bicycling, inline skating, on skateboards and on scooters.

How can I get my child to wear a helmet?
Let the child help pick out the helmet.
Always insist the child wear it.
When you ride together, set an example – wear a helmet.

How do I fit a helmet?
Helmets should have a CPSC label
Use foam pads to get a snug fit on the head or adjust “dial-a-fit”
Position so helmet is level and covers the forehead
Straps should form a V around ears and strap glides placed under ear lobes. Buckle straps and pull snug, allowing one finger width between chin and strap.
Shake head from front to back. The helmet should NOT move.

10 Safe Riding Tips

  • Always wear a bicycle helmet with a CPSC label.
  • Stop and check for traffic before you enter a street from a driveway, parking lot or sidewalk.
  • Ride on the right hand side of the road with traffic.
  • Obey traffic signs, signals and pavement markings.
  • Use hand signals.
  • STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. Look left, right, left again, and in front and behind you at stop signs and signals.
  • Walk your bike across busy intersections.
  • Avoid riding after dark or in bad weather. Wear light-colored clothing.
  • When riding in a group, form a single line.
  • On streets with parked cars, watch for doors opening into the road.

    Get in the helmet habit! You’re worth it!