Urban and rural patterns of bicycle helmet use: factors predicting usage.

Objectives: To document current bicycle helmet use in Winnipeg, Manitoba and nearby rural communities, and to identify target groups for a helmet promotion campaign.

Methods: Cyclist helmet use was observed between 28 May and 20 August 1996 at a sample of urban and rural locations. Age, gender, helmet use, riding companion(s), location type, correct helmet use, and use of headphones were recorded.

An observational study of protective equipment use among in-line skaters.

Objectives: To describe the patterns of protective equipment use by in-line skaters in Winnipeg, Manitoba and nearby rural communities.

Methods: In-line skaters were observed for three months in 1996 at 190 urban and 30 rural sites selected using a formal sampling scheme. Age, gender, protective equipment use, skating companions, correct helmet use, and use of headphones were recorded.