June 20, 1997

To: Helmet Designers and Manufacturers

Dear Sirs;

Dr. Lewis Zirkle, Vietnam program chairman for Orthopedics Overseas, has identified head injury due to cycling accidents as a particular problem in that region of the world. Bicycles and motor bikes are a principal mode of transportation but most cyclists do not wear helmets.

Vietnamese cyclists and those in nearby countries find protective helmets too heavy, hot and ill fitting for use. Malaysia, Myanmar and Indonesia have mandated the use of helmets but legislation, by itself, cannot not overcome these basic objections. Vietnam is reluctant to require helmet usage until more appropriate headgear is available.

Vietnamese cyclists need light weight, low-cost, protective helmets which will be sufficiently well ventilated for tropical climates. The helmets should also be theft proof, that is, lock in some fashion to the bike when not in use. Ideally, the helmets will also be well fitting and aesthetically pleasing as well.

The Snell Memorial Foundation has devised a performance standard for protective helmets for use with low powered vehicles, mopeds and motor bikes. Helmets meeting this standard and all the Vietnamese needs seem well within the current state of the art.

There is also interest among humanitarian groups in the United States and within the Vietnamese government to encourage the development of new helmets and of manufacturing facilities for local helmet production. Whether through subsidies, seed capital or other assistance, it may be possible to perform a valuable service for the people of Vietnam and neighboring countries and realize a business opportunity at the same time.

For all these reasons, we ask that you consider both the development of effective moped helmets for tropical environments and of a Vietnam based helmet production facility. We stand ready to assist and advise you in any way we can and to put you in touch with others interested in encouraging this work. Since the matter is pressing, a timely response would be greatly appreciated. Please contact Ed Becker at the Snell offices or Dr. Fenner at the number given below within the next ten days.

Sincerely,

Edward B. Becker, Executive Director

Harold A. Fenner Jr. M.D., President, (505) 392-5571