Whether it’s riding a bicycle or scooter or swooshing along on in-line skates or a skateboard, children have lots of fun on wheels. Parents must keep safety in mind for their children.
"Head injuries are the leading cause of serious injury and death to children on wheels,” says Shawna DiFilippo, Program Coordinator at Safe Kids Canada.
Here are the leading reasons why children get injured:
- They ride or skate near cars or traffic.
- They do not use safety gear.
- They are beginners and learning how to ride or skate.
- They go too fast or try stunts.
Can your child ride or skate safely?
Watch your child when skating or riding, and recognize that he should be able to:
- Keep his balance.
- Control his speed.
- Ride or skate in a straight line.
- Turn without losing control or falling.
- Stop without losing control or falling.
- Notice other people or things, and avoid running into them.
- Check over his shoulder without losing control.
Set family rules
- Keep your child safe and away from cars and traffic.
- Teach your children the rules of the road and safe practices.
- Never ride or skate without a helmet or safety equipment.
Safety starts with adults
"Parents can take safety precautions so that children keep participating in these activities," says DiFilippo. As role models, parents can demonstrate the importance of safety by wearing a helmet and using the appropriate protective gear.
Now that school's out, all adults should be vigilant while driving, and watch out for little ones.
"Drive safely. Follow the rules of the road. Be aware," DiFilippo says. “While parents play a huge part in the safety of their own children, others should play a role in keeping all kids safe."
TVOParents offers more safety tips:
