Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, in partnership with Safe Kids New Castle County, the Middletown Police Department, Delaware Bicycle Council and Rita’s Water Ice of Middletown, have launched “Caught You Being Safe,” a new campaign promoting helmet use.
This pilot program, taking place throughout Middletown during the month of August, will reward children “caught” by Middletown Police Officers wearing their helmet while riding their bike. The children will receive a coupon for free Rita’s Water Ice at their Middletown location.
Sean Elwell, RN, BSN, injury prevention coordinator at Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children and chairman of Safe Kids New Castle County, said falls are the leading cause of injury hospitalization in Delaware.
“Wearing a bicycle helmet isn’t just a law here in Delaware, it’s a vital step in reducing unintentional childhood injury,” he said. “Positively reinforcing helmet usage has been successful in other states and we hope to experience the same success.”
Christine Brenner, MPD crime prevention specialist, said the Department is committed to doing their part to ensure they keep the community safe.
“We support Safe Kids’ vision of an injury-free life for all children and are honored to take part in this important initiative,” she said.
Rita’s Water Ice of Middletown jumped on the chance to be a part of the “Caught You Being Safe” initiative.
“When Safe Kids reached out and asked us to participate in this program, it was an easy decision,” said Tricia Campese, owner of Rita’s Water Ice in Middletown. “We have always been focused on helping our community and by participating in this initiative we hope to do our part in increasing helmet usage.”
For more information, call Safe Kids New Castle County at 302-651-5437.
