MATTAPOISETT _ The Mattapoisett Police Department has partnered with The Seaport Ice Cream Slip in a cool effort to promote bicycle safety this summer.

Every child observed wearing a bicycle helmet by Mattapoisett Police on patrol will receive a card for a free ice cream cone at the Seaport Ice Cream slip on the Mattapoisett Town Wharf.  

This is part of the department’s effort to educate young people about bike safety, Police Chief Jason King said.

“Bike riding is a lot of fun, but accidents happen,’’ King said. “Every year, lots of kids need to see their doctor or go to the emergency room because of bike injuries.’’

He urges young people to take the following precautions when riding bicycles:

Wear a bike helmet every time you ride, even if you're going for a short ride. 

Make sure your bike helmet fits you well. Always wear your helmet the right way so that it will protect you. Make sure the helmet covers your forehead and don't let it tip back. 

Always fasten the straps, and don't wear a hat under your helmet. 

Take care of your helmet, and don't throw it around. If it's damaged, it won't protect you as well when you need it. 

Get a new helmet if you fall off your bike and hit your head. Put reflective stickers on your helmet so drivers can see you better. 

King urged parents to educate children about these rules of the road and thanked the ice cream business for the donation.