A big grin sliced Jayden Perry’s face as he touched the new free bicycle helmet placed on his head by EMS staffer Spencer Reynolds.

“I like it!” he said as he looked at his mother Crystal.

Reynolds nodded with satisfaction while he explained “helping children” is a great way to “give back to the community.”

He then turned to help another child in the line that had gathered to get a free helmet and other goodies during Safe Kids Day in Aragon.

Mike Long, firefighter, was watching Adonis Burrus and Georgia Knight, granddaughters of Curtis Burrus, decide which color helmet they wanted.

He also answered questions that kept him busy.

“We have had a wonderful response,” he replied when asked about attendance by one resident.

Many parents indicated they were present due to concerns about summer and safety hazards when children are riding bicycles

However, the kids were not thinking of tragedy. This was proven by the excitement of Jordan, Hayden, Will and Landon Waters as they received free balloons. Beverly Clinton, Julie Collum and Lori Dunn assisted them. The kids later displayed their talent for making puppets with assistance from Karen Smith.

Meanwhile Casey Jones and Ryan Croker, firefighters, were talking with a group of parents about having an escape plan.

Jones pointed to Croker, dressed in his turnout gear, and urged the children not to be afraid of him.

Croker said he wanted kids to run to him and not away.

“I don’t want a child hiding in a closet or under a bed in event of a structure fire,” he said. “It could be tragic. That is why it is important they know we are their friend.”

The same message was being given by Lt. John Goodwill and other police officers as they offered Junior Police badges and pink or blue hats.

There were other things for the youngsters to enjoy. Many learned how to make ice cream. Mikoyla Stockgtts, Makayla Williams,

Tristan Williams and Lavonia Cochran were among the first to “shake the ice” and note success when the process was completed.

Not only were staff from Redmond, the police and fire departments of Aragon present but also a number of community volunteers who said they wanted to bring the people together in a fun and educational event.

“This is a great example of getting acquainted with your neighbors,” said Jennifer Delgado, Neighborhood Watch organizer.

Redmond is the lead agency for Safe Kids in Polk County, a nationwide network of organizations with a mission of preventing unintentional childhood injuries.