IPOH, MALAYSIA - Helmets protect the individuals that wear them but their usefulness can only last five years.

Road Safety Department director-general Datuk Suret Singh said helmets were effective for up to five years from the time it is manufactured on condition they were handled and cared for properly.

"Helmets are made from a layer of sponge which protects one's head and skull in the event of accidents.

"After some time, the sponge disintegrates and the layer of protection is gone," he said yesterday when launching a rear seat belt and helmet advocacy campaign.

To further educate the people, Suret Singh said the department had had discussions with helmet manufacturers to include expiry dates on their products.

"Soon, helmets that are sold will have expiry dates," he said.

Suret Singh added that not caring for helmets properly, such as leaving them to soak in the rain, would cause the sponge to disintegrate faster.

"Helmets cannot be passed on from generation to generation because it has a lifespan," he said.

"Do not wear helmets just to meet the law but to protect yourselves."

Suret Singh further warned that helmets could only effectively protect wearers provided they were fastened on tightly and manufactured according to Sirim standards.

"When fastening the strap, make sure only one finger is able to pass through. If not, the helmet will get flung off on impact.

"It is also important to give children helmets that fit them and not helmets for adults," he said.

Last year, 3,963 out of 6,282 who died on Malaysian roads were motorcyclists and pillion riders.

From this, 68% of them died because they did not wear helmets or the protective gear were not up to standard, he said.

"Every day, 10 to 15 motorists and pillion riders die on the road while another 40 to 60 of them suffer serious injuries," he said.