Lids For Lives launched in Columbus, Absarokee

Kids who keep their noggins safe this summer by wearing helmets could score a sweet treat.
The trauma department at Stillwater Billings Clinic has partnered with Columbus IGA Plus, Columbus Fire Rescue, Absarokee Ambulance Service, the Columbus Police Department and the Stillwater County Sheriff’s Office in a pilot program called Lids for Lives.
Kids under age 15 who are spotted by law enforcement or EMS wearing a helmet while riding their bicycles, ATVs or riding horses will be given a “ticket.”
“If they are ‘caught’ riding with a helmet by a member of law enforcement they will be given a ‘ticket’. They can then present their ticket at Columbus IGA Plus for one free ice cream bar or sandwich,” said Stillwater Billings Clinic Trauma Coordinator Pam Prideaux-Leak. “We hope this positive reward for wearing a helmet while riding will encourage all kids to ride safely.”
Law enforcement and emergency medical responders have the same hope.
“I think it is a great program to help educate and encourage the kids to wear helmets. Kids should feel free to approach our deputies any time they see them parked or out of their vehicles, but for safety reasons, I would discourage them from trying to stop officers if they are driving by,” said Stillwater Undersheriff Chip Kem. “Our guys will be watching for them whenever they are on patrol.”
Columbus Fire Rescue Battalion Chief/Paramedic Nick Jacobs agrees.
“If children can protect themselves in any way they should be awarded for that good behavior and I think this program teaches that,” said Jacobs. “We will have the ‘award tickets’ in our apparatus and will be looking for kids to award them to.”