As the days get longer and the weather gets better, kids will spend more time riding bikes. And that’s a good thing. Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. It’s also a good way to build confidence and for kids to experience freedom.

But taking on the responsibility of riding a bike requires an understanding of the basic safety rules.

“Wheeling” is a leading cause of injury-related hospital stays for Washington children. The most dangerous injuries are to the head, so before heading out on a bike (or skateboard, scooter or roller/inline skates) always gear up. A properly fitted helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 85 percent. Parents should make it an absolute rule: no helmet means no riding.

It doesn’t matter if they are circling the driveway or riding around the block. Just because a child is close to home doesn’t mean they are safer than when they are out of sight.

How to fit a helmet:

• Look inside the helmet for a certification sticker from CPSC, ASTM or SNELL.

• Choose the correct size. Do not pick one they can grow into.

• Place the helmet level on the head, about 1 finger above the eyebrow.

• Adjust the fitting ring or pads. The helmet should fit snugly.

• Adjust the straps. The “Y” of the side straps should sit just below the earlobe and the chin strap should be snug with no more than 2 fingers of space between chin and strap. Test the fit by having the child shake his or her head. If the helmet moves out of position, readjust and tighten the straps.

Make sure the helmet is a bike helmet. Other types of head protection will not do. Only a bike helmet is designed to protect from a fall off a bike.

Other tips:

• Have kids ride during the daylight.

• Dress in appropriate clothing. Bright colors will make your child visible on the road. Also have him or her wear close-toed shoes and clothing that won’t get caught in the bike.

• Allow only one person per bike (or skateboard or scooter).

• Teach your child never to wear a helmet while playing at the playground or climbing a tree. The helmet straps may get caught on something and cause choking or strangulation.

• Parents, remember to wear a helmet yourself. Be a good role model for your kids.

• If an accident occurs, replace the old helmet with a new one.

• Follow the rules of the road: ride in a safe environment such as paved paths, parks and playgrounds; watch for cars backing out of driveways; always stop before entering the roadway; look left, right and left again; ride in the same direction as traffic; and obey all traffic signs and lights.

• Walk bikes and boards through busy intersections

• Stay alert: Do not use headphones or mp3 players while riding

For more information, visit www.multicare.org/childhoodsafety.