Scootering Safety

When you head for the pavement this summer... Plan-it Safe, and remember…

Don't Use Your Brains for Brakes!

The use of non-motorized lightweight scooters is on the rise. These fold-up scooters also called 'Microscooters' use small friction wheels similar to those on in-line skates. They weigh less than ten pounds and fold for easy portability and storage.

It is estimated that sales of scooters in the USA went from zero in 1999 to five million in 2000. Although similar numbers are not available for Canada, scooters are certainly a hot item and are becoming an increasingly common sight across the country.

Injury prevention experts have noted that as the number of people scootering has increased, so have the number of injuries resulting from this activity. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported a sharp increase in injuries associated with foot propelled scooters, especially among children under 15 years of age. They say a 1,800 per cent increase between May and September 2000.

The Canadian Hospital Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) has been tracking non-motorized scooter injuries since 1998. In June 2001, they reported that 305 cases have been identified, of which almost 77 per cent were children between 8 and 13 years. Bruises and abrasions and fractures have been the most common types of injury.

Similar to in-line skating, the majority of injuries are to the hand or arm as scooterers often try and break their fall by extending their arms to the front, side or behind them. Injuries to the head, legs and feet are also common. Most scootering injuries are preventable. The following tips will help to keep you safe while you get fit and have fun on your scooter.

Scootering Tips

• Always wear protective gear every time you use your scooter, including a helmet, elbow and kneepads. Wear long-sleeved shirts to prevent scrapes and cuts.
• Ensure scooter wheels and brakes are in good working order. Make sure wheels are securely tightened and are not blocked by debris or grass. Replace worn wheels immediately.
• Ride scooters on smooth, paved surfaces away from traffic. Avoid streets and surfaces with water, sand, gravel or dirt.

Avoid

• It is dangerous to use your scooter in the street. In densely populated areas, be especially watchful for cars and other traffic when crossing roads and streets. Look left-right-left and cross when it is safe to do so. Remember that you must obey all traffic regulations.
• Do not ride scooters at night.
• Be conscious of others: skaters, pedestrians, joggers, and bicyclists frequently use the same areas. Use caution when scooting around others.
• Young children, especially those under age eight should not use scooters without close supervision.

For more information contact Ottawa Public Health Information at 613-580-6744