Health Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada
Consumer Product Safety

In-line Skating and Skateboarding (Fact Sheet)

Revised March 2009
ISBN: 978-0-662-064664
Cat. No.: H128-1/09-571
HC Pub.: 4519

Help on accessing alternative formats, such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Microsoft Word and PowerPoint (PPT) files, can be obtained in the alternate format help section.


In-line skating and skateboarding are popular activities. Be careful! These activities can lead to serious injuries to the head, arms and legs. Be smart, wear the protective gear.

Safety Tips

Helmet
  • Always supervise young children.
  • Make sure all equipment is in good condition and fits properly.
  • Always wear a helmet, and replace it every 2-3 years or after a major impact.
  • Wrist guards will help to prevent wrist fractures in case of falls.
  • Cuts and scrapes can be reduced by wearing elbow and knee pads.
  • Teach children to choose a safe location, away from traffic, that has a smooth surface.
In-line skating

Teach and follow the rules:

  • Learn and teach how to stop and control speed.
  • Do not wear headphones.
  • Do not skate or skateboard at night or in wet conditions.
  • Stay alert! Keep your eyes on the surface ahead; watch for other people, cars and hazards such as cracks and rocks.
  • Respect others on the path.

For more information contact Product Safety, Health Canada:

Check regularly with the manufacturer and Health Canada for product recalls: www.healthcanada.gc.ca/cps-recalls