Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Safety Helmets, motorcycle helmet, dot helmets

Question
Hi Pat,

I've read that during a lot of tornados head injurys are a major cause of death. One website recommended having a metal trash can over your head for protection, but I would think something like a strap on helmet with the highest impact rating available would more secure and much better. I am referring to a possibly good precaution here for people who don't have storm shelters.
Could you tell me what types of helmet on the market would give the greatest protection against head injury during a tornado or extremely high winds? I would think some type of motorcycle helmet, but there may be something better out there.

Best,

Mike E.

Answer
What you're looking for is a "full-faced" helmet. For the types of flying objects that could cause head injury, you'd want to protect your whole face and chin, as well as your head. A full face is better than a 3/4 or half helmet.

Any NEW motorcycle helmet, no matter how cheap, sold at a dealership or shop that carries a DOT sticker would give you about as much protection as you could get. DOT helmets offer pretty much the same protection, whether it's a $60 helmet or a $500 helmet. (Most of the extra cost is features like visor and venting, as well as graphics/paint.) A DOT snowmobile helmet would work fine, too, and you may find them cheaper during warmer (tornado) months.

If you're looking to protect your family in a tornado, motorcycle helmets are not a bad idea. Good thinking.

Pat