13,000 bicycle helmets distributed statewide in Ohio safety effort

A campaign to promote bicycle safety for children in Ohio has distributed 13,000 helmets to organizations across the state.

 The "Put A Lid On It" campaign, supported by the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), and American Honda Motor Company, provided the helmets to 179 groups in 61 counties.

The helmets are distributed through various community partners, including pediatricians' offices, local health departments, police and fire stations, and schools.

Since its inception in 2011, the program has donated more than 100,000 helmets. Participating groups also receive bike safety training materials and instructions on proper helmet fitting.

ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn said the agency supports efforts to improve bicycle safety through infrastructure funding and educational outreach. She stated the campaign helps make helmet-wearing a routine safety practice.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, there were 1,337 bicycle-related crashes in Ohio last year, resulting in 23 fatalities and 189 serious injuries.

Ohio AAP Chief Executive Officer Melissa Wervey Arnold said that wearing a bike helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries. She noted that current helmet usage among children in Ohio is estimated at 10 to 20 percent, highlighting the importance of the campaign. Arnold expressed gratitude to the partners involved in the effort to enhance child biking safety.