There is do doubt that spring is here! Each new green leaf and flower adds to the evidence that summer is next. With the warmer weather and long sunny days comes the scooters, skates, and skateboards from storage. With proper attention to safety guidelines and state and local laws, scooters, skates, and skateboards can also be a safe way to travel.

In Woodland, riders must follow state, county, and municipal codes concerning these non-motorized vehicles. These statutes are concerned with rider safety, as well as the safety of other pedestrians and vehicles. California law requires that anyone under 18 years of age must wear safety gear—including a helmet—every time he or she rides. Enforcing this single law when volunteering at a school or playground can save someone from becoming one of the 125,000 skateboard injuries in the United States each year. According to the National Safety Council, about one-third of these injuries were experienced by children between the ages of 5 and 14 years old. Woodland Municipal Code forbids scooter, skate, and skateboard riders from attaching themselves to a vehicle. No hitchhiking! Other regulations in both Yolo county and Woodland restrict their use in some areas, such as county buildings and skateparks. In general, restrictions will be posted if scooting and skating are not allowed in certain places.

All riders using public areas should keep their equipment in good shape. This is a safeguard for both the rider and others around them. For instance, before each ride, check the wheels, brakes, and other equipment. Not only is this good for safety, having a young rider learn to check these items will teach them the responsibilities that come with ownership, as well as a science and engineering lesson about structural dynamics. Examining the structure of their vehicle will heighten awareness of the need for a good road surface. Riders should always look ahead for uneven surfaces or debris.

After getting the scooter, in-line skates, or skateboard ready for the road, riders should always wear protective gear. These accessories are essential to protect the most vulnerable areas: knees, wrists, elbows, and head.

Non-motorized scooter, skateboards, and skates have some flexibility concerning where they can be used. On sidewalks, any posted signs or notices banning skateboards must be obeyed. Also, pedestrians always have the right of way. Always pass pedestrians on the left. When in the street, stay to the right and maintain distance from automobiles and bicycles. Headphones should not be used while riding.

Enjoy the springtime and when supervising school areas, keep these guidelines and safety tips in mind to help young riders exercise, have some fun, and ride safely!