It's the law, and following it just might save a life or serious injury.

The problem is far too many San Juan County children under 18 aren't following this new requirement that started last July.

The law makes it mandatory for anyone 17 and younger who rides a bicycle, skateboard, scooter or other moving device to use an approved safety helmet. The are many good reasons for strapping on a helmet. Most notably, a helmet that is properly used protects the brain from potential life-changing injuries, or worse.

Local health care experts say the brain simply cannot be repaired if it is damaged. Swelling can be relieved, bleeding can be stopped, but the brain cannot be put back together following a major accident.

The new helmet law is one that should be followed by every young person in New Mexico. Parents of children must take the necessary steps to make sure their kids are outfitted with a helmet that will protect them in an accident.

Some parents may think they can't afford a helmet, but they are not expensive and ­ again ­ can save a child's life. Helmets also are given away free in the community by various groups. San Juan Regional Medical Center paramedics will give out helmets during Memorial Day Weekend later this month at Riverfest at Berg and Animas Parks in Farmington.

There are simply no excuses for not ensuring that a child has a required helmet.

The new law comes with a $10 fine, but area police say they aren't enforcing the law ­ yet. Instead, police in Farmington, Aztec and Bloomfield are educating kids and parents about why young people need to wear these protective devices. In Aztec, Police Chief Mike Heal even visits the local skateboard park to outfit children with free helmets.

Before long, though, police should start handing out the citations. Ten bucks isn't much, but sometimes it takes a quick hit to the pocketbook to make someone follow the law.

The new helmet law isn't a nuisance that interferes with a riding experience. It's a law that makes plenty of sense ­ and could save some precious lives.