AUBURN, Mass. - Some parents would agree it can be a uphill battle to get kids to put on a helmet while riding a bike, so the Auburn Fire Department wanted to help out. 

"If we see them out riding with a helmet, then what we have is a choice of some ice cream from Coco's Ice or playing mini golf at Crystal Caves." said deputy chief Glenn Johnson. 

Summer is a popular time for kids to be out on their bikes, but the department said about half of the kids they see in town aren't wearing a helmet to protect their head from any injuries. 

"Studies show that if a child is wearing a bike helmet, it prevents 88% of brain injuries by having that helmet" said Johnson.  

What You Need To Know

  • Auburn Fire Department is giving away free coupons to kids spotted wearing their helmet while biking
  • The department said helmets prevent 88% of brain injuries
  • The program rewards kids for practing bike safety and encourages others to protect themselves
  • The department is also offering free helmets 

Johnson said they want to reward the riders who are practicing bike safety and help encourage others to protect themselves. 

"It is also very important throughout the summer that as kids are out riding with their parents, their parents are also wearing a helmet and setting that good example," Johnson said.

The department is also handing out free helmets at the station to anyone who may need one.