Police reward helmet wearers

Hamburg — In an effort to encourage safe behavior, the Hamburg Police Department has begun issuing “reward tickets” to promote the use of helmets among young people riding bikes, skateboarding and roller-skating. In collaboration with the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey, Hamburg Police are implementing a safety campaign called “Think Positive: A Helmet Safety Reward Program.” The program continues through Sept. 7. Children under age 17 observed wearing a helmet while bicycling, skateboarding or roller-skating will be issued a “reward ticket” by an officer. The ticket entitles the child to a free treat at one of the participating business partners: the Market Place Deli, Hamburg Hot Bagels and RJ’s Corner Deli. New Jersey Law requires that any child under 17 wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, skateboarding or roller skating. Hamburg Police started this program for the first time in 2007, in cooperation with local businesses. The results: in 2007, they issued 81 reward tickets and last year they issued 96. In addition, police say there has been a notable increase in the compliance of the helmet safety laws. For more information, contact Sgt. Erik Aronson or Detective Paul Demott at 973-827-6211 or www.hamburgpolice.org. to reach the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey, call 800-669-4323 or visit www.bianj.org.