The weather is perfect, and it is a great time to get outside, go for a bike ride and enjoy great yogurt – especially if you are a Bicycle Helmet Hero. For the second year in a row, Pixley Funeral Home has teamed up with CoolYo^® Yogurt at 2602 N. Squirrel Rd. in Auburn Hills and the Auburn Hills Police Department to reward kids seen wearing their bike helmets a free yogurt.

“It’s all about fun and encouraging kids to ride safely,” said Tim Summerford, general manager at Pixley Funeral Home.

"The program is going great,” said Officer Chris Mahon. “We passed out the free yogurt tickets at a neighborhood bike rodeo recently. The kids loved them, and we love to see kids staying safe.”

Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and enjoy time as a family. According to the Cleveland Clinic, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent. Every year almost half a million children suffer serious bike related injuries, many of which could have been avoided if they had worn a helmet. Simply wearing a properly-fitting helmet can protect against traumatic brain injury in the event of an accident.

The best way to get kids to wear their helmets is to get them started early. The earlier you begin to stress the importance of wearing a helmet, often the less resistance you will face. Another way to encourage kids to wear their helmets is to lead by example. Not only will you set a good example, but perhaps you will be recognized as a Bicycle Helmet Hero and get to enjoy a free yogurt, too!