Bikes, scooters, roller blades and skateboards all require helmets in Lawrence. To help in keeping kids safe while cycling, local youth can get a free helmet at the April 30 Helmet Fair. Children must be present at the fair to receive a helmet and be fitted because proper fit is important to the effectiveness of a helmet. By wearing helmets while biking or on other wheels, serious head injuries can be reduced by as much as 85-percent.

The 2011 Helmet Fair will be held in conjunction with the University of Kansas Spring Game. The helmet fair will be held on the KU Campus, Lot 91, southeast of Memorial Stadium between Spencer Museum and the football practice fields, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Youth ages 15 and under, accompanied by an adult, can be fitted for a bike helmet, while supplies last.

Volunteers will come together on Saturday, April 30 to provide Lawrence youth with custom fitted helmets and lots of safety advice. Kids can get a helmet custom fitted, ride on a street course, ride in bike rodeo, and learn about bike trail etiquette and swimming from experts. A fun zone featuring inflatable interactive games will also be present in Lot 91.

The Kansas Football Spring Game will kick off at 1 p.m. in Memorial Stadium.

If kids are unable to attend this year’s helmet fair, they may be fitted for a helmet at any Fire Medical Station.