Firefighters to Reward Kids for Wearing Helmets

As summer fast approaches, McDonald’s and Safe Kids Pierce County are teaming up with Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One and Key Peninsula Fire on the “Safe Rider Citation” campaign. 

Thanks to the generosity of McDonald’s, firefighters can add another tool – a tasty reward – to their efforts to encourage children, 14 and under, to wear helmets when enjoying bicycles, skateboards, while skating or using scooters.  

Firefighters from Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One and Key Peninsula Fire will award “Safe Rider Citations” when they spot kids doing the right thing; wearing their helmets.  

The “Safe Rider Citation” treats the bearer to one FREE Happy Meal at area McDonald’s in recognition of their safe habits.  

Helmets reduce the risk of head injuries by as much as 85 percent and brain injuries by 88 percent according to safety experts, with head injuries accounting for 60 percent of bicycle-related deaths.  

Only about 60 percent of children and 30 percent of teens are wearing bike helmets, and in Pierce County it’s not only the smart thing, it’s the law.   

Participation in a program that combines good safety practices with good “eats” – in the form of a FREE McDonald’s Happy Meal will help send the message that wearing a helmet can save your life!

Click here for more information on bicycle safety tips.