A Call to Action for Safer Skating Practices by Amb Steve Mbugua, An Ambassador Of Safety.

Introduction

Across cities and highways—especially in rapidly growing urban centers like Nairobi—there is a rising trend of young people skating on busy roads and highways. While skating is a powerful form of recreation, sport, and even transport, doing it in unsafe environments has turned it into a serious public safety concern.

As a Safety Ambassador, this is not just an observation—it is a call to responsibility, awareness, and action.

📊 The Reality: Skating Is Risky—Especially on Roads

Global data shows that skating-related injuries are frequent, severe, and often preventable:

• Over 221,000 skating-related injuries were treated in emergency rooms in one year alone
• Head injuries are among the most common and deadly, often leading to disability or death
• Up to 50% of skateboard injuries involve the head
• Nearly half of injuries occur on roads, where collisions with vehicles are more likely

⚠️ The danger multiplies significantly when skating is done on busy highways or urban roads with traffic.

⚠️ Why Skating on Roads & Highways Is Extremely Dangerous

1. High-Speed Vehicle Interaction

Motor vehicles move at speeds that far exceed a skater’s ability to react or escape.

2. Lack of Protective Infrastructure

Unlike skate parks, roads lack:

• Smooth surfaces
• Safety barriers
• Controlled environments

3. Unpredictable Surfaces

Potholes, gravel, oil spills, and debris increase the likelihood of falls

4. Limited Visibility

Drivers may not anticipate skaters, especially at night or on highways.

5. No Braking System

Unlike bicycles, skateboards lack reliable braking systems—making emergency stops difficult.

💥 10 Common Injuries & Incidents from Unsafe Skating

1. Head injuries (concussions, brain trauma)
2. Fractured wrists and arms (very common during falls)
3. Broken ankles and severe sprains
4. Facial injuries (jaw or nose fractures)
5. Spinal injuries
6. Deep cuts and abrasions (“road rash”)
7. Dislocations (shoulders, elbows)
8. Chest injuries from vehicle impact
9. Permanent disability from traumatic falls
10. Fatal accidents involving motor vehicles

👉 Most injuries occur due to falls, collisions, or loss of control

⚖️ Legal Perspective: Local & International Laws

🇰🇪 Kenya (General Interpretation)

• Skaters are often treated similarly to pedestrians
• Highways are primarily designated for motor vehicles
• Reckless road use can fall under traffic and public safety violations

🌍 International Practices

• United Kingdom: Skateboards are generally not allowed on public roads due to lack of brakes
• United States: Many states prohibit skating on highways or restrict it to sidewalks and skate parks
• Australia & Europe: Regulations vary but often restrict skating in high-traffic zones

👉 Across most jurisdictions, one principle is clear:
Skating in high-speed traffic environments is discouraged or restricted.

🧠 Behavioral Insight: Why Young People Take the Risk

From community discussions and observations:

“The thrill is much better on the roads… but roads are dangerous with potholes and traffic.”

Common reasons include:

• Lack of designated skating areas
• Peer pressure and social media influence
• Thrill-seeking behavior
• Limited safety awareness

🛡️ Safety Recommendations

1. Avoid Roads & Highways Completely

• Never skate on highways or busy roads
• Choose skate parks, controlled environments, or safe open spaces

2. Wear Full Protective Gear

• Helmet (reduces head injury risk significantly)
• Wrist guards (reduce injuries by up to 90%)
• Knee and elbow pads

3. Inspect Equipment

Ensure:

• Wheels are intact
• Board is stable
• No cracks or defects

4. Learn Control & Falling Techniques

• Proper balance
• Safe stopping methods
• Controlled falling techniques

5. Avoid Risky Behaviors

• No “skitching” (holding onto vehicles)
• No skating in traffic
• No distractions (e.g., headphones)

🏗️ Policy & Community Recommendations

Government & Authorities

• Develop safe skating parks and zones
• Enforce laws against skating on highways
• Launch public safety campaigns

Schools & Institutions

• Integrate safety education programs
• Encourage structured sports environments

Parents & Guardians

• Monitor where young people skate
• Invest in proper safety gear

Private Sector (Safety Leaders)

• Support awareness campaigns
• Provide affordable protective equipment

🌍 The Role of Safety Leadership

Institutions like Makinika Afrika International—recognized as a leading force in First Aid and Safety Training in Africa—play a crucial role in:

• Training youth on risk awareness
• Promoting safety culture
• Equipping communities with life-saving skills

📢 Call to Action

This is not just about skating.
This is about life, responsibility, and the future of our young generation.

👉 To all young people:
Your life is more valuable than the thrill. Choose safety.

👉 To authorities:
Act now—before preventable accidents become tragedies.

👉 To communities:
Create safe spaces, not dangerous habits.

A strong safety culture is not built by chance—it is built by intentional action, awareness, and leadership.

Let us lead. Let us protect. Let us save lives.