Electric scooters and e-bikes are set to be one of the most-requested gifts under the tree this year.
Grown-ups, if a scooter is on your tween or teen’s holiday gift list this year, listen up.
These devices offer fun and freedom, but safety must be the top priority for kids heading out on the open road or sidewalk.
Follow these tips to make sure they’re getting around safely.
- Help your kids start slow and learn to control their scooter or e-bike. Make sure they know how to use the brakes and use the brakes.
- Set and enforce helmet rules when your kids are using their scooter. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in a crash.
- Some scooters include speed governors. Consider using them.
- Ensure your child has reflective clothing. Add lights and reflective tape to their scooters if they plan to ride at night.
- Riders should use sidewalks or bike lanes. If those are not available, help your child choose a different route.
- Make sure your children use crosswalks and intersections if they’ll be crossing busy streets.
- Kids should not wear earbuds while riding to ensure they can hear traffic around them.
Find more safety tips for riders, parents and drivers at opkansas.org/Scooters.