The Kiwanis Club of Keene will once again host its Kool Wheels Family Fun and Safety Day on Saturday, May 4th, from 10 am to 12 Noon (rain or shine) at the Keene Parks & Recreation Center, 312 Washington St, Keene. This is a free family event where children of all ages may select a new bicycle helmet, learn about bike safety, and speak to representatives from community organizations offering resources for children’s health and safety.

• Children will choose their bicycle helmet from a colorful selection (while supplies last). Trained helmet fitters will properly fit and adjust the helmet.
• Children may bring their bikes to the event for a safety inspection and tune-up by representatives from an area organization.
• Usually, the Keene Police Department and Cheshire County Sheriff’s Department will bring cruisers, and the Keene Fire Department provide a fire engine for children to learn about these emergency vehicles. We are also planning on the Cheshire County EMS to bring some ambulances and staff to do car seat safety checks.
• Kids may bring a favorite teddy bear or doll for casting by the Orthopedic staff of Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene. This activity helps decrease future anxiety children might experience from injuries. In addition, Miller Orthodontic Specialists will provide dental information.
• Every child who comes to Kool Wheels will be entered into a drawing for a new boy’s and girl’s bike, donated by Walmart. Additional raffle prizes will be available. Raffle drawings will be done at the end of the event and winners will be notified. Children will receive a bag of healthy snacks to take home.

According to statistics, nearly half a million children are treated for bicycle-related injuries each year. Statistics also show that only about 30% of all child cyclists wear a helmet, and head trauma causes over 60% of the injuries and deaths that occur from bicycle accidents. The Kiwanis Club is committed to educating children and parents on the importance of wearing helmets, with a goal of preventing as many bicycle accidents as possible.

Visit the Kiwanis website at keenekiwanis.org for updates on the Kool Wheels event.