Helmet Safety

Helmet Safety Program - "We Caught You Using Your Head"

For the summer of 2011 the Sport Medicine and Science Council is pleased to have Tamra Irwin as its Helmet Safety Coordinator.

Each summer, the Sport Medicine Council of Manitoba administers a program dealing with helmet safety and awareness. In recent years, the program has expanded from promoting only bicycle helmet use to including inline skating and skateboarding helmet use. The goal of "We Caught You Using Your Head" is not only to increase helmet use among the general public, but also to inform those already wearing helmets of the correct way to protect their head.

Some of the many initiatives and events attended or coordinated by the SMCM's Helmet Safety Program include the following:

RORKETON SCHOOL - SAFETY FAIR

May 12th, 2011 - Located in Rorketon, MB.

Tamra and her trusted volunteer Kristy Sytkowski traveled to Rorketon, MB to participate in Rorketon School's annual safety fair.  Along with a number of other safety oriented organisations, the SMSCM delivered its helmet safety presentation to kids ranging from grade three to grade eight about the severeity of head injuries and the importance of wearing a helmet when partaking in various activities.  Schools traveled from surrounding communities to Rorketon School for the day. 

CYCLE CARNIVAL

May 14th, 2011

This year Tamra took our helmet safety display in all it's entirety to the YMCA's Cycle Carnival (Kimberly Avenue location).  Although the helmet display faced winds strong enough to blow the display of the table, Tamra was still able to educate kids and adults alike about the importance of wearing a helmet, as well as the importance of the positive effect that parental role modeling has on helmet usage in children.

TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC

May 29th, 2011

The SMSCM could be found with a Jell-o mold of a brain, a shattered helmet that saved a life, coloring pages for kids and our famous Helmet Safety and Helmet Fitting Board, set up in the Food, Fit & Fun Tent, hosted by the Province of Manitoba and the Department of Healthy Living. Families enjoying the event were encouraged to approach the display, touch the 'Jell-o brain' as well as ask questions regarding helmet safety, bike safety, and helmet fitting. 

KING EDWARD SCHOOL - SAFETY NIGHT

June 2nd, 2011

Tamra along with her trusted helmet safety dispaly and Jell-O brain headed to King Edward School for an evening of safety! Talking to kids and parents alike, Tamra answered questions about purchasing as well as fitting helmets, when to replace a helmet, and what types of helmets are best for which activities!

TRANSCONA HI NEIGHBOR FESTIVAL

June 4th, 2011

Tamra had the helmet safety display set up all day at the festival on Saturday!

"We Caught You Using Your Head!"

July-September 2011

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The SMSCM “We Caught You Using Your Head” helmet safety program is in full swing again this summer, and we are looking for you. Individuals who are “caught using their heads” and wearing their helmets will receive prize packages donated by local businesses in reward for their safe riding practices during wheeled activities. i.e. cycling, skateboarding and rollerblading. Look for us in the parks this summer.

Thanks to our many great sponsors!