Is hover boarding dangerous? This is one of the main concerns of anyone thinking of investing in equipment.
After all, a quick internet search already brings up news and even videos about the various dangers of the famous electric skateboard.
But do you know what these risks are? And, above all, what precautions should be taken to minimize them? That's what we'll cover in this article!
Is hover boarding dangerous?
To begin with, it is important to point out that, until today, the hoverboard is not regulated by any Paki body.
This means that, despite the fact that equipment manufacturing has already advanced, there is no quality control in the country.
Furthermore, the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro) itself does not consider the hoverboard a toy, given that the device exceeds 8km/h.
It is not for nothing that there is a recommendation for a minimum age and minimum and maximum weight to use it. Yes, that's exactly what you just read.
Despite being widely used by children and young people, the truth is that the hoverboard is only suitable for children over 12 or 14 years old.
In addition, most models are indicated for people who weigh between 40 kg and 120 kg.
This is because the equipment depends on the pressure exerted by the weight distribution on the hoverboard axes to function.
Based on this information, you can already see that the equipment may not be as harmless as it seems, right?
But is the hoverboard really dangerous? That's what you'll discover below.
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Yes, the hoverboard is dangerous!
It must be borne in mind that the hoverboard does offer some risks and that there is a proper way to use the equipment.
Despite being seen by many as just an entertainment option, the truth is that the hoverboard is dangerous.
But if you have such equipment or are thinking about acquiring yours, it doesn't mean that you will have to abandon it or even go out there in search of another option.
The point is that the equipment does offer some risks that must be considered.
And if the child, youth or adult does not use the hoverboard properly, the danger can be even greater.
Proof of this is that, more and more, we hear stories of children who got hurt while playing with the equipment.
After all, for those who don't know, the hoverboard can reach a considerable speed, between 12 and 20km/h, being equated to a bicycle, for example.
Therefore, falls can happen and are even among the main risks, especially among beginners.
And the biggest problem is that such falls do not always result in only slight abrasions.
Strains, bruises, sprains and fractures, especially wrist, forearm and even head, can also happen.
There are even cases that require hospitalization.
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Can hoverboard catch fire? Learn more about fire and explosion hazard
But falls and fractures are not the only risks offered by electric skateboarding. The hoverboard is also dangerous due to the risk of fire and explosion.
As much as these episodes are becoming increasingly rare, the danger exists and cannot be disregarded.
And this is mainly due to overheating caused by low quality batteries.
A common problem in parallel or cheaper models that don't have any security concerns.
It should even be noted that, in this case, the risk of fire and explosion exists, even when the hoverboard is unplugged and even in motion.
On the other hand, we cannot fail to point out that the lack of maintenance of the electrical part is also a problem.
As well as the overload of the power point, usually caused by the simultaneous charging of different devices.
Furthermore, leaving the hoverboard plugged in for long periods can also contribute to the device overheating.
Another issue that deserves attention is the condition of use of the equipment and, above all, the charger.
It's common to see worn chargers out there, with loose wires or connector problems, which can increase the risk of fire or explosion.
Finally, we must not forget that such episodes can be aggravated by shocks or even burns.
12 precautions to avoid hoverboard accidents
Caring for hoverboard loading is also important to reduce risks
Now that you know that the hoverboard is dangerous, it's time to understand what can be done to minimize incidents as much as possible.
Check out, below, 12 important precautions that must be taken for your safety:
- Buy your hoverboard only from well-known manufacturers and trusted stores;
- Check if the hoverboard has any of the American certifications: Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or UL 2272. They are the ones that prove that the equipment has passed a safety test;
- Choose models resistant to dust and water, as they offer greater stability;
- Invest in protective equipment, such as a helmet, elbow pads, knee pads, wrist guards and appropriate clothing, especially when you are learning;
- Check if the capacity of the equipment is compatible with your current weight;
- Avoid transiting on irregular roads, steep terrain, very close to cars and places that offer risk, such as kitchen and swimming pool;
- Never get on your hoverboard with wet feet;
- Wait for the equipment to stop completely and only then get off it;
- If your hoverboard is getting hot during use, stop using it immediately and get another battery or change the equipment itself;
- Avoid recharging your hoverboard simultaneously with other electronic devices;
- Do not exceed the loading time. Once the hoverboard is fully charged, immediately unplug it;
- If the hoverboard happens to catch fire, do not pour water on the equipment, especially if it is still plugged in. Use a fire extinguisher and call the Fire Department.