(Posted Aug. 5, 2020)
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Ohio chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)’ “Put A Lid On It!” bike helmet safety awareness campaign. The program provides Ohio children with bike helmets and raises awareness for the importance of helmets in saving lives and preventing injuries.
The Friends of Madison County Parks and Trails was tapped to distribute the helmets in Madison County at the annual Safety Expo bike rodeo. Due to cancellation of the Safety Expo, the distribution will take place at a drive-through style event in partnership with Madison County Public Health, Madison Health.
The event is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 15 in the Madison County Senior Center parking lot, 280 W. High St., London.
“We are so excited to be able to help the Friends of Madison County Parks and Trails to distribute approximately 180 bike helmets of varying sizes to the children of our community, thanks to the Ohio AAP,” said Amber Snyder, Madison County Public Health health educator.
“With children spending more time doing outdoor activities, such as riding bikes, during the pandemic, it is important to remember that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85 percent. It is also critical to make sure that the helmet fits the child’s head properly. The helmet should sit just above the eyebrows with the straps snug under the chin. It should not be able to move back and forth or side to side.”
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, helmets are individually wrapped and will be distributed drive-through style. Participants are asked to stay in their cars while receiving helmets. Volunteers, which will be kept at a minimum, will be wearing facial coverings and using sanitizer between each guest.
Helmets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until supplies run out. Thanks to the generosity of Madison Health, COVID Care Kits also will be available for families. These kits include hand sanitizer, sunscreen and a mask.
For more information, call Amber Snyder at (740) 852-3065, ext. 1534.
