In the heart of Wausau, a renewed initiative is underway to promote helmet safety among children as warm weather encourages more outdoor activities. Cycling, scootering, roller skating, and skateboarding are popular pastimes that boost physical activity but also pose inherent risks. Each summer, emergency rooms witness an increase in injuries related to these activities, many of which could be avoided by simply wearing helmets. To tackle this issue head-on, Aspirus Health and Safe Kids Marathon County have reintroduced the "Helmet Hero" program, encouraging young riders to protect themselves with a simple yet effective message: Be your own hero—wear a helmet.

According to Amanda Tabin, the Safe Kids and Injury Prevention Coordinator at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, nearly half of children hospitalized due to bike-related accidents suffer from traumatic brain injuries. Despite this alarming statistic, fewer than half of kids aged 14 and under consistently wear helmets while riding. Studies show that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries by at least 45%. Recognizing the importance of this protective gear, local law enforcement officers from the Wausau and Mountain Bay Metro police departments will actively look for children who prioritize safety by wearing helmets. These diligent young riders will be rewarded with a special coupon offering a free small cake cone at any Briq’s Soft Serve location.

This collaborative effort between Aspirus Health, Safe Kids Marathon County, and Briq’s Soft Serve aims to instill a sense of responsibility among children regarding their safety. Officer Jeff Zwicky from the Mountain Bay Metro Police Department emphasizes the necessity of making helmets a standard part of every ride, just as seatbelts are essential in motor vehicles. Lt. Nathan Pauls of the Wausau Police Department further highlights that confidence in riding does not exempt anyone from potential accidents, reinforcing the universal importance of helmet usage regardless of age or skill level.

The overarching goal of the "Helmet Hero" campaign is to inspire children to make safe choices, allowing them to enjoy their favorite activities without fear of injury. For families facing financial barriers to purchasing helmets, updates on community events distributing free helmets can be found on Safe Kids Marathon County's Facebook page. Additional resources for proper helmet fitting and bike safety tips are available at aspirus.org/bicycle-safety.

Through this revitalized campaign, the community hopes to foster a culture of safety-consciousness among young riders. By incentivizing helmet use and providing accessible resources, the program seeks to empower children to take charge of their own well-being, ensuring they remain active and injury-free throughout their adventures.