Safety Tips: Skateboarding
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Skateboarding and longboarding are popular among children and teenagers but come with a high risk of injury. In 2011 alone, over 78,000 emergency room visits were due to skateboard-related injuries. While many of these injuries are minor, such as bruises, cuts, or sprains, more severe cases do occur. According to the National Trauma Databank, more than 450 hospital admissions annually are related to skateboarding injuries, including serious injuries like broken bones and traumatic brain injuries.
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Common Injuries
Injuries from skateboarding can range from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe conditions. Risks increase with falls from heights or collisions with objects like other skateboarders, cars, or bikes. Common injuries include:
- Minor bruises and small cuts or scratches
- Deeper cuts, including facial injuries
- Broken bones, such as those in the ankles, wrists, elbows, and legs
- Traumatic brain injuries
Injuries can affect any child or teenager, but different age groups are more prone to specific types. Those over 16 are at higher risk for brain injuries and tibia fractures, while children under 10 are more likely to sustain femur fractures.
Age Recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises close adult supervision for children aged 6-10 while skateboarding and recommends that children under 5 avoid skateboarding altogether.
How to Make Skateboarding Safer
To reduce the risk of injuries while skateboarding:
- Wear Protective Gear: Ensure children wear a helmet, and consider additional protection like wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads. Learn More
- Choose Safe Locations: Skateboard at designated skateboard parks rather than on streets. Avoid skateboarding in wet conditions or during rain.
- Inspect Equipment: Regularly check that the skateboard is in good condition, with secure wheels and no cracks or broken parts.
- Teach Basic Skills: Educate children on essential skateboarding skills, such as stopping and turning abruptly. Note that one-third of skateboarding injuries occur during the first week of learning.
- Supervise Closely: Always have an adult present while children are skateboarding.
- Limit Use: Ensure only one person uses a skateboard at a time to reduce the risk of accidents. Encourage taking turns, being considerate of other skateboarders, and avoiding the use of headphones while skating.
