Skateboarding Safety

Skateboarding is a popular activity among young people. However, it carries a serious risk of injury. Some of the common skateboarding injuries include facial injuries, wrist fractures, injuries to the neck, arms, trunk and severe injuries such as concussions and head injuries. You can greatly reduce the risk of injury by following these simple safety tips.

• Wear protective equipment including a helmet, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads and appropriate shoes. In addition, empty your pockets of any sharp or hard objects before skating.
• Get a quality skateboard and keep it in proper working condition. Before every ride check it well and repair any problems such as broken or cracked parts, a slippery top surface or cracks and nicks in the wheels.
• Master the basics first. Learn how to turn, slow down and stop appropriately.
• Learn how to fall safely. If losing balance, bend down on the skateboard so that you don’t have as far to fall. Try to relax and roll if you fall.
• Stay in a good physical condition as it helps prevent injuries.
• Practice your tricks and stunts in areas reserved for skating such as a skateboard park. Avoid skateboarding on irregular surfaces and in crowded places, dark areas and wet weather.
• Avoid riding more than one person on a skateboard.