Learning how to ride correctly is only part of what keeps a child safe. Falls are inevitable, and teaching children to fall correctly will prevent many serious injuries. Teach them to roll on impact, relax their body, and try to land on their padded and fleshiest parts.
Check bikes and scooters for cracks or dents, sharp metal parts, jutting edges, deflated tires, and slippery surfaces. Replace defective equipment, consult a professional for repairs and apply self-adhesive, non-slip material to slippery surfaces.
Scooters, rollerblades, bikes, and similar equipment cause thousands of injuries—and even some deaths—every year. Make sure children in your homeowner's association are wearing helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, especially if they are just learning. A helmet is crucial, not only does it save lives it’s also a law in most communities. Encourage parents to buy a helmet that a child thinks is cool and safe—it’s worth the extra money if the child is more likely to wear it.
Being proactive to check for trip hazards and uneven pavement will protect the homeowners association and the child from potential liability costs if an accident occurs.
The bottom line is safety. Accidents can occur at any time, and the association should be doing its part to keep residents safe. You can start by handing out these tips or even holding a bike and scooter educational hour some evening. The homeowners association should be a safe and sound place for children to play.