the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Westwood, NJ – Summer 2025 – Kids in Westwood have a new reason to wear their helmets while biking this summer – free treats and discounts from local businesses!
The Westwood Police Department has kicked off its “Think Safe, Ride Safe: Helmet Initiative” in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health and the hospital’s Trauma Services Department.
This safety campaign uses positive reinforcement to encourage children to wear helmets. Officers will hand out reward coupons to kids spotted riding safely with helmets.
🍦 What Prizes Can Kids Earn?
Local businesses have stepped up to support the program with fun incentives. Coupons include:
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A free small Slurpee at 7-Eleven
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A free scoop of Italian ice at Brewster’s Ice Cream
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$2 off at Playa Bowls
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Special offers from Westwood Cinemas
Photos of the colorful coupons were shared on the Westwood Police Department’s Facebook page, showing just how excited the community is to participate.
🚲 Why Helmet Safety Matters
While helmets don’t prevent all accidents, they dramatically reduce the risk of serious head injuries. Sadly, recent North Jersey incidents highlight the dangers of the road:
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On July 17, two teens tragically lost their lives in a Paterson motor scooter crash.
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The same day, a Denville woman was struck and killed by a pickup truck while riding her bicycle.
Authorities did not confirm whether helmets were worn in either case, but experts emphasize they can be life-saving.
🛡️ What Are New Jersey’s Helmet Rules?
In New Jersey, anyone 17 and younger must wear a helmet when:
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Riding a bicycle (or sitting as a passenger)
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Being towed by a bicycle
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Using roller or inline skates and skateboards
According to the Westwood Police, every hour nearly 50 children nationwide visit emergency rooms due to wheeled sports injuries, and 11% involve serious head trauma.
🎁 Free Helmets for Families in Need
To make safety accessible to everyone, the program also offers free bicycle helmets to children and families facing financial hardship.
To request a helmet or get involved as a local business sponsor, email ccoughenour@westwoodnj.gov.
📌 Key Points
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Westwood Police & Hackensack Meridian Health launch helmet safety rewards program
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Kids wearing helmets can earn coupons for ice cream, Slurpees, and more
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NJ law requires helmets for anyone under 17
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Free helmets available for families in need
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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