THUNDER BAY – Following recent tragic events in the communities that it serves, the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service is doing its part to help keep people safe.
The NAPS has launched the Lids 4 Life campaign, which will see the collection of new ATV helmets that will be donated to the 34 communities that NAPS officers work in.
“There has been a marked increase lately in the accidents involving ATVs and off-road vehicles,” Sgt. Cory Oleschuk said during Monday’s campaign launch at Excalibur Motorcycle Works.
“We’re just being proactive to try and get that message out there for safety. The communities that we police have a distinct lack of resources to acquire these types of safety equipment. It’s not like you can run down to a Canadian Tire or a workshop like this to buy a helmet.”
The goal for the campaign is to receive 500 helmets by July, which is when they will be donated to the communities.
“The big thing we ask is that the helmets are either new or in good condition,” Oleschuk said. “Helmets are like car seats. They have an expiry date to them and if there is any damage, the manufacturer recommends a replacement.”
Alex Torma, service manager at Excalibur, said it was an easy decision to get involved with the Lids 4 Life campaign.
“As a (motocross) racer myself and going through injuries, having proper safety equipment is vitality important,” Torma said.
“You need to have a proper fitting helmet. If you were to ever come off in a crash, you want to make sure that your head is properly protected.”
Helmet donations can be made at Motorcycle Works, J&J Sports, Intercity Power Sports, Half-Way Motors Power Sports, and North Country Cycle and Sports.
Those who are unable to visit the participating locations can also make arrangements for a donation via e-mail.
