(HealthDay News) -- Wearing a helmet during certain sports or recreational activities can protect you against a serious head injury, including brain damage.

The U.S. National Safety Council recommends wearing a helmet if you participate in:

• Riding horses or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
• Baseball, softball or football.
• Biking.
• In-line skating or skateboarding.
• Snowboarding.
• Rock climbing.