According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, millions of Americans ride bicycles but less than half wear bicycle helmets. In an effort to help prevent children from receiving head injuries, Phoebe Emergency Center is giving away 200 bicycle safety helmets for children up to age 12 on Saturday, June 9 at Tift Community Park Market from 9 a.m. to noon.

“Bicycle riders with helmets are less likely to die from their injuries, and less likely to break facial bones, than those not wearing a helmet,” shared Phoebe Emergency Center medical director, James Black, MD. “The key is to start them wearing one early,” Black said.  “As soon as they start riding their bikes, they should be taught to wear a helmet. It should become a routine."

There are a limited number of helmets in sizes small, medium and large. To receive a helmet, children will have to be present to receive a fitting. Helmets will be distributed on a first come first served basis. Pecan City Peddlers and members of the Albany Police Department Bicycle Division will be on hand to assist with fittings as well as share helpful tips to ride safely.

"It’s similar to wearing a seat belt,” stated Dr. Black.  "While wearing one doesn't prevent you from being in a car accident, it does lower the risk of injury and of dying in an accident."