Scooting is a brilliant way for anyone of any age to get about. It's a really fun activity to help get your child moving. It's healthy, environmentally friendly and inexpensive. So let's get scooting.
What you need
Depending on the manufacturerÌýand model, you may need differentÌýtools to make adjustments.Ìý
Most scooters need a 5mm hex/ Allen key and a pair of spanners to adjust the headset.
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Things to remember
- Wear appropriate footwear such as trainers. Sandals andÌýflip-flops aren’t suitable.
- Be careful of baggy clothing thatÌýmay get caught up in the scooter.
- Always make sure you have your school bag on your back securely.ÌýIf it’s over your handlebars, itÌýcould throw you off balance.
- Put any clothes you aren’t wearing in your school bag.
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Scooter safety check
Before using a scooter, make sure it’s safe to ride by using the ‘L’ check.
Start at the top of the ‘L’ and work your way down and then along.
- Make sure there are bar-end plugs in place and the grips are in goodÌýcondition and attached securely.
- With a folding scooter, you have adjustable handlebars. They shouldÌýbe set around waist height and the clamp holding them must be tight.
- The handlebars connect to the deck at the headset. MakeÌýsure any clamps are fully tightened and if the headset rocks backÌýand forth then this will also need tightening – enough to stop theÌýmovement but still allowing the handlebars to turn smoothly.
- If there is a folding mechanism, check it is fully locked in theÌýriding position. Tighten any loose bolts.
- Grip tape on the deck will wear out and need replacing from time to time.
- Make sure the wheels spin freely and are attached securely. AxlesÌýcan come loose and cause the wheel to wobble when riding.
- Brakes are important for helping stop the scooter. Make sure anyÌýbolts are secure.
Remember – you can’t check parts that aren’t there… have a lookÌýand ensure no obvious parts are missing or badly damaged.
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Pavement etiquette
Be considerate to others, especiallyÌýthe elderly, wheelchair users, thoseÌýwith babies and young children,Ìýlarge groups and dog walkers.Ìý
Pass them slowly andÌýwalk if you need to. A littleÌýcourtesy goes a long way.
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Crossing the road
Find a safe place, then STOP,ÌýLOOK and LISTEN before crossing.Ìý
Don’t scoot on the road. Carry yourÌýscooter or push it alongside you.
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Scooting in the rain and dark
Take extra care whenÌýscooting in the wet as theÌýbrake won’t work so well.
At dusk or in the dark, considerÌýputting flashing lights on yourÌýscooter.
Brightly colouredÌýand reflective clothing willÌýalso help you be seen.
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Skills training
It is important children learn toÌýhandle their scooters competently soÌýthat they can ride safely.
Your localÌýauthority may offer training.
Get inÌýtouch with their road safety team toÌýfind out what’s on offer, or speak toÌýyour ߣߣÊÓƵ contact if you have one.
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