VANCOUVER, Wash. -- Police in Vancouver started scanning the streets for people on wheels with their heads uncovered Tuesday as a new helmet law took effect.

City leaders passed a new law last month on a 5-1 vote requiring helmets to be for everyone riding bicycles in public areas within the city, including adults.

KTVB file photo

The law also applies to those on skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, unicycles and scooters. Fines for breaking the helmet law will cost up to $50.

The first month of the law, officers said they planned an education mission, and wouldn’t start issuing tickets right away.

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The law includes a provision for the court to waive, reduce or suspend the penalty if the violator provides proof that he or she has acquired a helmet.

Vancouver was one of the few jurisdictions in Washington state that did not have an ordinance requiring the use of helmets for bicycles.

Most cities in Washington state and a handful of cities around the country require helmets for bicyclists of all ages.

Oregon law requires the use of helmets for anyone under the age of 16.