Sunset Elementary Student Wins Poster Contest

Published August 28, 2008

Sunset Elementary School student Alvin Zhang is using his artistic skills to help save lives. Zhang was among the winners of a statewide contest to promote bicycle safety. The contest was created by Tennessee's Traumatic Brain Injury Program as a way to remind parents and children that helmet use is not only a smart safety measure, but it is also the law in Tennessee.

The contest was open to all Tennessee students in kindergarten through grade 12. All artwork had to be original and

drawn by hand, and was judged on creativity, originality and how well the poster reflected the theme of bicycle safety. Winners were chosen from each grade for which there were participants, with each winner awarded a $50 savings bond. Alvin won the award for third grade.

Statistics show most deaths related to bicycle falls and collisions involve head injuries, underscoring the need for helmet use. The helmet should fit comfortably and securely. It should be worn level on the head, not tilted back on the crown or pulled low over the forehead. A person should not be able to move the helmet in any direction, back-to-front or side-to-side. The chin strap should be securely fastened. If needed, the helmet's sizing pads can help improve the fit.