HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-05-26 Public Comment - M Bateson - Helmets and Bike SafetyFrom:Mary Bateson
To:Douglas Fischer; Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Helmets and Bike Safety
Date:Tuesday, May 5, 2026 9:34:17 AM
Attachments:Spring into Safety-BDC.pdf
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Dear Deputy Mayor Fischer,
I just want to make sure you see this article on safety written by the pediatric staff at BillingsClinic Bozeman. I know you appreciate the advice of experts.
Sincerely, Mary Bateson, Bozeman Resident
https://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/spring-into-safety-what-bozeman-pediatric-experts-
want-families-to-know/article_ea64fcd5-320f-41b4-bbfa-0597f5221d3f.html
Spring into Safety:What Bozeman Pediatric
ExpertsWant Families to Know
By Billings Clinic Bozeman
May 4, 2026
As winter loosens its grip on the Gallatin Valley, longer days and
warmer temperatures will soon be drawing children outdoors in full
force. From bikes and trampolines to trailheads and backyard playsets,
spring is a welcome change, but according to pediatric sta at Billings
Clinic Bozeman, it also comes with a predictable rise in pediatric
injuries.
For providers at Billings Clinic Bozeman, this time of year is about
enjoying the return of warmth and sunshine in Big Sky Country while
keeping prevention and safety at the forefront
“Every spring, we see a noticeable uptick in injuries once kids get back
outside,” said Dr. Claire Kenamore, pediatrician at Billings Clinic
Bozeman. “Theyʼre excited to move again aer winter, but their bodies
and coordination sometimes need a little time to catch up.”
As bikes, scooters, and skateboards come out of storage, head injuries
become a primary concern. Helmets remain one of the simplest and
most eective ways to protect children.
As kids spend more time riding in neighborhoods and near roadways,
itʼs also important to review basic road safety. Watching for trac,
using hand signals, staying visible to drivers and making eye contact
when crossing at intersections are just a few things kids can do to stay
safe.
“We canʼt emphasize helmet use enough,” said Kenamore. “Itʼs a small
habit that makes a life-changing dierence. And modeling that
behavior as adults matters more than we sometimes realize.”
Parents are also encouraged to check equipment before use, ensuring
brakes function properly and that helmets still }t aer a winter of
growth.
Backyard trampolines and play equipment are another frequent source
of springtime injuries, particularly fractures and sprains.
“Trampolines are one of the most common injury sources we see this
time of year,” Kenamore noted. “If families choose to have one, we
strongly recommend close supervision, one jumper at a time, and
safety netting.”
With snowmelt contributing to rising rivers and irrigation ditches,
water safety becomes a concern in the Gallatin Valley and in
communities across Montana.
Even in a year where there has been less snow and therefore less
snowmelt, itʼs important for families to have conversations early and
oen about staying safe around water, which will be noticeably higher
than it has been over the winter months.
Spring also brings a surge in seasonal allergies, which can impact
everything from sleep to school performance.
“We see a lot of kids this time of year struggling with allergy symptoms
that families may not immediately recognize,” said Kenamore. “If your
child has persistent cough, congestion, or fatigue, itʼs worth having that
conversation with your provider.”
For Billings Clinic Bozemanʼs pediatric team, Spring is a great time to
work with families to build healthy and good, lasting habits.
“Our goal is to support families with practical, realistic guidance,” said
Jodie Daigle, multi-specialty manager at Billings Clinic Bozeman. “We
live here too. We understand how active this community is, and we
want kids to enjoy everything the season has to oer safely.”
Daigle emphasized that prevention doesnʼt mean limiting activity; it
means preparing for it.
“This is such a vibrant, outdoor-focused community,” she said. “If we
can help families think ahead—whether thatʼs helmets, supervision, or
just being aware of seasonal risks—we can keep kids doing what they
love while staying safe.”
Spring in the Gallatin Valley is something families look forward to all
year. With a little preparation and awareness, it can also be a season of
safe, healthy activity for children of all ages.
“Kids should be outside, exploring, and playing,” said Kenamore. “Our
job is just to help make sure they can keep doing that.”