Even if you install backyard ramps and supervise your child's extreme sports carefully, you can't avoid accidents. Extreme sports are becoming increasingly popular with kids and teens. Many parents can relate to being begged for a trampoline, backyard ramp, halfpipe ramp or dirt bike ramp.
The Dangers of Skate Ramps
Wearing protective helmets, kneepads and wrist guards can greatly reduce the severity of injuries during skateboarding, but 50,000 skateboard injuries occur yearly, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
You may be able to give your kids and their friends the safest backyard ramp possible, but you can't control what they do once they're on the ramp. Kids are thrilled by speed and danger, and teens often feel invulnerable, leading them to attempt some dangerous stunts. In an attempt to be the next Tony Hawk, a kid might wind up with a broken arm.
Backyard Ramps and Liability
Having this equipment in your yard makes you liable for injuries, which can affect your homeowner's insurance rates. Your child's neighborhood friends, not to mention your own adult friends, will doubtless flock to your house to use the cool sports equipment, and the responsibility for them will fall on you. Insurance companies may be cautious about insuring this equipment.
The safest option is to take your child to a public skateboard ramp, and be sure he or she has the proper safety equipment. At least you will be able to focus on their skating without worrying about liability matters.
If You Do Get a Backyard Ramp
Make an informed decision before installing such equipment in your yard. If you want to go for it, get the most stable equipment possible, made from the strongest material that won't crack or splinter. Inform your insurance agent, and set strong rules for your child's usage in terms of supervision and friends' use. Consider installing fencing around the equipment that you can lock closed when out of town or away from home, as a die-hard extreme sports fan cannot resist a good skate or bike ramp.
 | Those child safety measures that worked for your baby and toddler need to be adapted as your child grows. Older kids are motivated and willing to take risks to explore, so you need to keep hazardous items locked away and set down firm rules to prevent accidents. |
 | Before you let your kids run amok on your backyard playground, you need to make sure the backyard is a safe and appropriate place to play. So get out outside before your kids do, and go through this safety checklist. |
 | Check out these baby safety products for your baby's safety. By taking a few safety precautions, you can help prevent accidents and guarantee a safe environment. |
As the summer months approach, many families across the country will be heading to one of several amusement theme parks for a day fun. Unfortunately, some amusement park trips have tragic ends. Incidents of riders falling from roller coasters are rare, but can occur. |
While sports offer benefits from physical fitness and coordination to learning the value of teamwork, they can also result in injuries. |
