To document current rates of bicycle helmet wearing throughout the province of British Columbia, systematic observations were conducted at a representative sample of sites during the summer of 1995. Data were collected for bicyclists of all ages observed riding on commuter and recreational routes as well as in school-based neighborhoods. Helmet use was highest at commuter locations (50%), in urban areas (42%) and among riders of road (racing) bicycles (49%). Persons ages 16 through 50 wore helmets most often (42%). Misuse was more common among females (12% vs. 6% for males) and was very high among children younger than six (26%).