Helmets, Heroes & Two-Wheeled Fun: Kool Wheels Rolls Back into Keene

The Kiwanis Club of Keene is gearing up once again to host its popular Kool Wheels Family Fun and Safety Day on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) at the Keene Parks and Recreation Center. Best of all, this fun-filled family event is completely free. Bicycle safety is no small matter. Each year, nearly half a million children are treated for bike-related injuries. Even more concerning, only about 30 percent of young riders wear helmets — despite the fact that head injuries account for over 60 percent of serious injuries and fatalities in bicycle accidents. That's where Kool Wheels comes in. Designed to blend fun with education, the event gives children the chance to learn essential bike safety skills in an engaging, hands-on environment. It also helps raise awareness among parents and caregivers about the importance of helmet use and safe riding habits. At the event, children of all ages can choose a brand-new bicycle helmet (while supplies last), professionally fitted by trained volunteers to ensure maximum protection. Kids can also pick out a bicycle accessory and receive a Complete Child ID kit. There's plenty more to explore. Local organizations will be on hand sharing valuable resources for children's health and safety. Kids can bring their bikes for a free safety inspection and tune-up, then test their skills on a bicycle safety course. And of course, it wouldn't be Kool Wheels without some special guests! Keep an eye out for Ribby from the Keene SwampBats, Fergus from the Cheshire Children's Museum, and Deputy Dog from the Cheshire County Sheriff's Department. Families can also check out emergency vehicles up close, thanks to the Keene Police Department, Keene Fire Department, and Cheshire County EMS. The Sheriff's Department will even bring along their "Copsicle" truck for a cool ice cream treat! For a unique and comforting activity, children can bring a favorite stuffed animal for casting by orthopedic staff from Cheshire Medical Center Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene — a creative way to help ease fears about injuries and medical care. Additional highlights include dental health information from Miller Orthodontic Specialists and take-home sunscreen products generously provided by Badger. Every child who attends will be entered into a raffle to win a new bike, generously donated by Walmart, along with other exciting prizes from local partners. Plus, all kids will head home with a bag of healthy snacks. At its heart, Kool Wheels is about keeping kids safe while having fun. The Kiwanis Club remains committed to helping families build lifelong habits around helmet use and bicycle safety — because every ride should be a safe one.