Positive Helmet Rewards Program Returns In Cranford

CRANFORD, NJ — In an effort to promote the use of helmets and encourage safe behavior, the Cranford Police Department and Cranford Jaycees have collaborated with Big Apple Pizza and Vinny’s Pizza and Pasta to implement the Keep Calm and Helmet On Safety Reward Program for the remainder of 2024.

This safety initiative uses positive reinforcement and education to reinforce the importance of helmet safety and brain injury prevention.

Children under the age of 17 seen wearing a helmet and safely participating in a wheeled sports activity will be given a “positive summons” by a Cranford police officer. The summons include a reward for the child for practicing safe responsible behavior.

The rewards are donated by the Cranford Jaycees and entitle the recipient to plain slices of pizza and a drink at either Big Apple Pizza or Vinny’s Pizza and Pasta in Cranford.

Brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability in children and young adults. A properly worn helmet is the single most effective safety device available to reduce brain injury and death by as much as 88 percent (Dr. C. Everett Koop).

New Jersey’s helmet law requires that “Children under the age of 17 wear a helmet while bicycling, skateboarding, and roller-skating.”

Cranford’s Keep Calm and Helmet On Safety Reward Program is a community program that involves police, local charitable organizations, and local businesses to encourage safe riding within the Township of Cranford.

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