PORT TOWNSEND — With city leaders looking at repealing a controverisal bicycle helmet ordinance before its wheels begin to turn, firefighters and police are offering free bicycle helmets to anyone from toddlers to seniors.
The only catch is you have to make an appointment to be specially fitted for the headgear.
“I get 50 a week, but I think I am going to have to upgrade,” said Julie Mathews, an East Jefferson Fire Rescue volunteer community life safety officer.
Already, Mathews has 150 helmets available, acquired by the city with Medical Services Council of Kitsap County grant dollars.
Mathews, who must be contacted at 360-344-4609 for a helmet-fitting appointment, said fittings take place at the East Jefferson Fire Rescue’s administrative offices in the Pink House at the northwest corner of Harrison and Lawrence streets.
If she is not available, call Port Townsend Police Officer Tony Polizzi at 360-385-2322.
Mathews said that fittings are required under the grant and ensure the helmets will prevent injuries rather than cause them.
“There are so many people in the county that are not wearing their helmets correctly,” she said, which can cause neck, head and other injuries regardless of the protection.
“We have to custom fit these helmets to help you.”
