Kate C., like all other young children, wears helmet on scooter. Photo by Al Campbell

CAPE MAY — Starting July 1, Cape May Police Department will begin handing out "Positive Tickets" to children under 17 who are seen wearing helmets when biking or skateboarding.

The Helmet Safety Reward Program is being done in an effort to encourage safe behavior in collaboration with the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey.

Youngsters under age 17 are urged to wear helmets when participating in any wheeled sport activity. If spotted by an officer, they will be given one of the "Positive Tickets."

That ticket includes various rewards for the child for practicing safe, responsible behavior.

The reward will be donated by local merchants and can be redeemed for prizes.

The ticket, when show to the parent, provides additional information on brain injury and helmet safety. The reward makes the p rogram appealing to the children and encourages them to get "caught" wearing their helmet.

Brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability in children and young adults.

A properly work helmet is the single most effective safety device available to reduce brain injury and death as much as 88 percent.

State helmet law requires all children under age 17 to w ear a helmet while bicycling, skateboarding and roller skating.

For more information contact Sgt. Connelly or Patrolman Genaro at (609) 884-9500.