Safe play may earn free lunch

Kids caught playing safely may receive a free sandwich.

Subway has made a deal with local police around the country, including departments in Salt Lake City, Draper, Ogden, Park City, Provo and Orem, to reward children who are wearing a helmet and safety gear while riding their bicycles, skateboards or scooters this summer. Any officer who sees children playing it safe may issue them a Playin' Safe Citation, redeemable at any participating Subway for a 6-inch sandwich or a kid's meal.

"We want to reward that behavior and reinforce it," said Salt Lake Police Sgt. Fred Ross. He assured that officers will approach the children tactfully and try not to scare them by telling them they're receiving a real citation. It's all meant to encourage children to enjoy themselves outdoors in a way that avoids injury, he said.

Participating police departments received 500 Playin' Safe Citations and will begin passing them out July 6.

— Michael R. McFall