Skateboarding is a fun and exciting activity, but it can also be dangerous if safety is not taken seriously. I observed yesterday that of the dozen kids at the local skatepark, only two were wearing a helmet. One of the most important ways to stay safe while skateboarding is to wear a helmet. Helmets are designed to protect the head from serious injuries, like concussions and skull fractures, which can happen if a skateboarder falls or crashes. One of the boarders wearing a helmet fell and hit his head at the bottom of a ramp. I cringed until I saw him get up and get riding again. Without that helmet, it might have been a different outcome.
Many studies show that wearing a helmet makes a big difference. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that children and teens should always wear a helmet that fits well and is made for skateboarding or other wheeled sports. Helmets can lower the risk of head injuries by more than half, which means fewer trips to the hospital and less chance of long-term problems. Even though helmets are so helpful, most kids and teens do not wear them regularly. Surveys show that about three out of four middle school students rarely or never wear a helmet when skateboarding.
Helmets work best when they fit snugly and are worn correctly. The straps should be tight enough that the helmet does not move around, but not so tight that it is uncomfortable. Helmets should be replaced if they are damaged, involved in a crash, or get too small as the child grows. Decorating helmets with stickers or choosing a favorite color can make wearing them more fun and personal.
Parents and adults play a big role in keeping kids safe. When adults wear helmets, kids are more likely to do the same. You might think about wearing a helmet when going roller-skating as well. Schools and communities can help by teaching about helmet safety and making sure helmets are available to everyone.
In summary, wearing a helmet is the best way for skateboarders to protect their heads and stay safe. Helmets save lives and prevent serious injuries, and everyone—kids, teens, and adults—should make helmet use a regular part of skateboarding.
– Dr. Greg Kostur is a pediatrician at Health West Pediatrics. He champions a holistic approach to children’s healthcare and is an advocate for Health West’s integrated behavioral health model. Dr. Kostur earned his MD from the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland in 1999.
