If you're riding your bicycle in the next couple of days don't be surprised if a fire engine pulls up alongside you.

In a concentrated effort to encourage helmet use, today through Thursday, the Albany fire and police departments will be handing out certificates along with coupons for a free dessert at McDonald's.

"Kids are out in the summer and grownups are riding bikes," said Wanda Omdahl, fire department spokeswoman. "It's time to think about wearing a helmet."

Firefighters and police have 400 coupons, donated by McDonald's, to hand out to both kids and adults they see wearing helmets.

For those not wearing a helmet, officials will hand out a paper with information on how to get a free helmet through the Albany Fire Department, which has a year-round program to fit people with helmets. Helmets are available at the fire administration office on the second floor of City Hall, 333 Broadlabin St. S.W.

Helmets are required for bicycle riders 16 and younger. However, the fire department recommends that everyone wear the protective gear anytime they are on wheels such as skateboards, in-line skates or scooters.

Unintentional injuries are the No. 1 killer of kids under 14, and brain injuries can be life long, Omdahl said.

The three-day helmet check is part of an effort at injury prevention for the fire department. Eighty percent of its calls are medical.