While skateboarding can be a rewarding and beneficial physical activity for children and adults, it is not without its dangers. According to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates, approximately 26,000 people are treated every year for skateboard-related injuries in emergency rooms. Choosing to skate in a supervised and well-maintained skate park may provide a safer experience, but skaters should also be aware of some basic guidelines regarding skateboard park safety.
Age Limitations
Though many youngsters frequent skate parks, this sport can be dangerous for small children. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend skateboarding for children 5 years of age or younger and recommends the activity for kids ages 6 to 10 only under supervision by an adult or trusted older adolescent. Beginning skaters should try to practice in the mornings, when parks are less crowded.
Safety Gear
You should always wear protective gear in a skate park, regardless of whether the park requires it or not. A properly fitting skateboard helmet is essential in order to protect against head injuries, and should be ASTM F1492, Snell N-94 or CEN certified. Check the inside of the helmet for a safety sticker to ensure your helmet has one of these certifications. Knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards are also recommended. Also make sure your shoes fit properly and have rubber soles that grip the board without slipping.
Skate Park Etiquette
Observe the rules of skate park etiquette to ensure a safe riding experience for yourself and your fellow park skaters. Wait your turn and use a clear hand signal to alert those around you before beginning a trick. If your board flies out of your control, yell "board!" to alert other skaters. When you're not skating, stay out of the way of other riders. If you need to take a break, sit just outside of the park, away from active skaters. Look carefully in all directions before passing through the park. Don't sit on the edge of a bowl or ramp.
Avoid Snaking
In skateboarding terminology, snaking refers to dropping in on a fellow skater while he's attempting a run. To snake someone is essentially to cut in front of them, and this is a major skate park faux pas because it is rude and dangerous. If you accidentally snake someone, get out of the way as quickly as you can to avoid a collision, then offer an apology.
Falling Safely
All skateboarders fall occasionally, and knowing how to fall safely can help reduce your risk of injury. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, you should try to crouch down if you're losing your balance to reduce the impact of the fall. Try to fall on the fleshy parts of your body instead of your arms or head. Though your natural reaction may be to stiffen your body, you should instead try to relax your muscles and roll into the fall.
Member Comments