There is something about self propelled bikes and scooters that will always elicit a special appeal to children. Almost universally, once a child sees an electric scooter, they want one of their own. With the cost of kids electric scooters such as the Razor E100 so affordable, it is within the reach of most, especially as a Christmas or birthday gift. As parents, our primary concern is to ensure that these scooters are safe. Here are some safety recommendations:
1. Make sure that the operator of these scooters always wear a safety helmet
2. Never allow them to be operated in the street. If sidewalks are used, instruct your kids to be aware of the possibility of cars entering and exiting driveways.
3. Purchase a scooter that has a maximum speed that is safe for your child’s age and skill level. I usually recommend a maximum speed of 10 MPH for beginners.
4. Do not allow scooters to be operated on steep incline. Obviously this is a judgment call, but nothing is worse that seeing a child accelerating uncontrollably down a hill.
5. Instruct your child on the operation of the brakes.
6. Make sure the scooter handle bars are adjusted to the appropriate height. Some scooters lack this capability; if this is the case verify that the fixed handle height is appropriate for your child.
The above recommendations are general guidelines. Of course only you know your child’s abilities and judgment skills. It’s better to purchase a scooter that is under-powered than to risk injury to your child because the scooter is too much to handle.
