Free Ice Cream as part of Bike Helmet Program

Kids in Saratoga County who wear their helmets when riding their bikes may get a 'ticket' as part of the Safe Summer Bike Helmet Program. On June 26th, Senator Jim Tedisco kicked off the 21st annual program which would give kids free ice cream tickets if they are spotted wearing a helmet while either riding their bike, inline skating or skate-boarding throughout Saratoga County.
Police in several upstate counties will be giving out the 'tickets' that can be redeemed for a free scoop of ice cream at Stewart's Shops, Ben & Jerry's or Hayner's Ice Cream in Halfmoon.
Senator Tedisco told the Times Union “Summer is the season for kids to have fun but we can’t ever forget that they need to keep safety in mind. I want children to enjoy the summer but I also want them to be safe when they’re riding their bicycles. Safe Summer also provides positive interactions between law enforcement and kids.”
According to the New York State Department of Health, an average of 54 New Yorkers are killed each year in bicycle crashes and 19,000 residents are treated at a hospital due to bike-related injuries.
It is not just Saratoga County that is promoting kids to wear helmets, Schenectady County Sheriff, Fulton County Sheriff, Hamilton County Sheriff, Herkimer County Sheriff, Clifton Park Town Security, Glenville police, Saratoga Springs police, Ballston Spa police, Scotia police, Stillwater police, Schenectady police, Niskayuna police, Rotterdam police, Gloversville police and Johnstown police are also offering the program.
In New York State, children up to age 14 must wear a bicycle helmet or parents could face $50 fine.
Parents this is a good time to teach your kids the importance of wearing a helmet and getting a reward when following the rules.