Hoverboards may be futuristic, but Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is advising people to ride them with age-old safety tips in mind.
In a Tuesday Facebook post, the hospital noted a "steady caseload" of patient injuries from riding, most often of broken bones, concussions, cuts and other physical injuries.
“Our emergency departments and Urgent Care Centers are experiencing a steady caseload of patients who have been injured while using hoverboards. Like riding a bike or skateboard, safety gear is a must. Consider these tips to avoid becoming the next #hoverboardfail," the hospital wrote.
CHOA's tips include wearing protective gear, avoiding high-traffic roads, using a spotter and reviewing manufacturer warnings regarding the dangers of fire.
On the top of many holiday wish lists, hoverboards have recently been in the news for less positive reasons: Reports of them causing fires have made multiple headlines, as did their connection to credit card fraud.
Concerns about fire have led to bans by airlines and college campuses, including some in Georgia.
Support real journalism. Support local journalism. Subscribe to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution today. See offers.
Your subscription to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution funds in-depth reporting and investigations that keep you informed. Thank you for supporting real journalism.