MEDIA RELEASE: Tioga County Public Health Launches “Helmet First, Ride Second” Program to Keep Children Safe

Last Updated: 8/5/2026

Tioga County Public Health is proud to announce the launch of its “Helmet First, Ride Second” program, providing free bicycle helmets and helmet safety education to children ages 14 and younger throughout Tioga County. Funded through a generous grant from the Floyd Hooker Foundation, the program aims to remove barriers to helmet access while helping prevent head injuries. Since launching this summer, Tioga County Public Health staff have visited several local summer camps and recreation programs in Tioga County and have distributed 225 properly fitted helmets to children.

Although the program focuses on bicycle helmets, the message extends to all wheeled activities, including biking, skateboarding, scootering, and more. Wearing a properly fitted helmet is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious head injuries. It also supports the New York State law, which requires children 14 and younger to wear an approved helmet while riding a bicycle and when participating in other applicable wheel activities.

A properly fitted helmet provides the best protection during a fall or crash, making helmet education just as important as helmet distribution. Every child who receives a helmet is individually fitted by trained staff and learns the 2-V-1 method for proper helmet fit:

• 2 finger-widths above the eyebrows
• Straps forming a “V” just below each ear
• 1 finger between the chin and the fastened chin strap

Thanks to the Floyd Hooker Foundation, we’re able to remove financial barriers, educate families on proper helmet use, and help prevent injuries before they happen. Tioga County Public Health looks forward to continuing to partner with schools, camps, recreation programs, and community organizations to expand the “Helmet First, Ride Second” program. For more information or to schedule a helmet distribution event, please contact Tioga County Public Health at 607-687-8600 or visit ph.tiogacountyny.gov.

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