GR Griffins' Put a Lid On It Program Inspires Kids to Wear Helmets

Julie Bitely

| 2 min read

Little girl riding a bike.
Since it began in 2004, the Grand Rapids Griffins’ Put a Lid On It program has prompted thousands of kids across West Michigan to make a pledge that will help keep them safer. Kids ages two through 17 who sign a pledge form to always wear their helmet when riding their bike or scooter and when skating or skateboarding receive a voucher for two free Griffins tickets. The best part? They can pledge - and score tickets - every hockey season. According to Safe Kids, consistent bike helmet use can “reduce head injuries by 85%, brain injury by 88%.” Additionally, “more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in ERs for injuries related to biking than any other sport.” The PALOI program is presented by Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and supported by Safe Kids Greater Grand Rapids. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is a sponsor of the program, along with many other great community-minded companies. More than a third of children who wear helmets wear them improperly, increasing the risk for head injury. Find out more here to protect your child every time they ride a bike or hop on a skateboard or skates. Set an example for your kids by always wearing a helmet on family rides and insisting that they do the same. If your child needs a helmet, the Griffins are hosting two Lids at the Library events on June 25 and 26. The first 100 kids at each event will be fitted for a free bike helmet (subject to availability). If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:
Photo credit: Richo.Fan
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