YOUNGSTERS are being warned of the dangers of in-line skating after one person died and others were injured in skating accidents in Lancashire.
A skater was killed and 20 people were injured in the county in the last two years - and experts believe the figure could be even higher with many accidents going unreported.
Lancashire County Council and Lancashire Constabulary believe simple precautions outlined in a guide could prevent injury or even save a life.
In-line skaters can reach speeds of around 45mph on four or five rubber wheels along the boot sole.
The brake mechanism is at the rear of the boot sole, activated by pressing down but inexperienced skaters fall over when braking.
"Sprains and broken bones are common among skaters. Those most at risk of injury are aged ten to 14 and the recent death of a skater has tragically highlighted the dangers," said Lancashire Constabulary's road safety officer, Chief Inspector Ian Bell. "Nobody wants to stop people having fun but skaters should be aware of the dangers. All we ask is that they follow our guidelines for safe and fun skating," added the chairman of Lancashire County Council's Highways Committee, County Councillor Richard Toon.
The Highway Code for young road users aims to raise awareness of the dangers and offer guidelines for fun and safe skating.
They include:
wear a helmet and protective pads for wrists, elbows and knees
skate within your ability in safe areas
never skate on roads, footpaths, near water or inside buildings
never skate on your own
check the area before skating for obstructions, holes, etc
look out for other people
tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back
check your equipment regularly
The guide is available from Lancashire County Council by phoning 0345 573970.
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article