Councilman David G. Greenfield is partnering with the NYC Department of Transportation to host his second free bike helmet fitting and giveaway today in Midwood. The event is open to the public, with helmets available for adults and children of all ages. Anyone interested in a free helmet is invited to come to Friends Field Park at Avenue L and East 4th Street between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. today, Sunday June 1, in order to receive a free helmet. Please come early because helmets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

“Bike riding is a great way for children and adults to get exercise and travel around the community. However, it must be done safely. That’s why I’m sponsoring a bike helmet giveaway with the Department of Transportation to make sure that there are no excuses for riding without a helmet. I urge all cyclists in my district to come and take advantage of this free event,” said Councilman Greenfield.

Councilman Greenfield is passionate about safe cycling. He has previously introduced a bill in the City Council that would mandate the use of bike helmets. The legislation was based on the overwhelming evidence that proves helmets save lives – and reduce the chance of getting killed in a bicycle accident by 85 percent. Helmets are already required by law for anyone under the age of 13 or working cyclists. Helmets are even more important for urban cyclists. According to 2012 data from the US Department of Transportation, the overwhelming majority of bicycle deaths occur in urban settings like New York City.

While everyone should wear a helmet while cycling, it is even more important that one wears a well-fitted helmet that will not fall off or shift in case of an accident. Today, DOT officials will be on hand with 600 free helmets and recipients will be professionally fitted for their new helmet. The event will be held at Friends Field Park at Avenue L and East 4th Street. Attendees are encouraged to arrive as early as possible to help ensure that a helmet will be available. You must be present to get a helmet and a parent or legal guardian is required to sign a waiver for all children under age 18.

(YWN Desk – NYC)