For three days, beginning on March 23, road users in Hanoi have an opportunity to change their low-quality helmets for a new standard of protective headwear under a programme established by the city’s traffic safety committee.

People can buy the new helmets in four locations around the city, including Thong Nhat Park , Ha Dong Park, Hang Dau flower garden and Thanh Cong Park , as well as at eight helmet agents in Hoang Mai, Dong Da, Cau Giay and Tu Liem districts.

The cost of the new helmets are partly subsidised under the programme, held in response to a National Committee for Traffic Safety policy.

Besides the programme, the municipal traffic safety committee will inspect helmet manufacturers. Anyone found making helmets that do not meet safety standards will be fined.

The committee will also launch a campaign to check and fine children riding without helmets between April 1 and June 1.

Statistics show that the majority of fatalities and brain injuries resulting from road accidents are related to low-quality helmets.

In an effort to remove unsafe helmets from circulation, a series of provinces and cities, including Lao Cai and Dak Lak, have inspected helmet makers.

Earlier, the Prime Minister issued directive No. 04/CT-TTg on strengthening State management of the helmet industry and their use.-VNA