Students’ desires to ‘look cool’ leads to decrease in safety gear usage
There’s a skating crew at iCamp and it’s off the rails.
A group of students at iCamp have decided to bring their skateboards and roller skates along with them to campus. But what seems like a casual and fun way of transportation could spell out danger for these students.
Skateboarding is a hobby largely known for its association with rebellion and cool tricks, but also for its absurd injury count. According to Skateboarding Safety, 20% of all skateboarding injuries are to the head.
Despite the potential sprains, bruises, concussions, and broken bones, iCamp students are wearing less protective gear. And while there have been no reported injuries during the program, counselor Brandon Bounds said the decreased usage is concerning.
The lack of safety wear may be linked to a national poll conducted by the Texas-based insurance company, The Zebra. According to the corporation, 10% of drivers don’t wear their seatbelts when they feel like the trip is short enough. And that could be one of many reasons why iCampe students have decided to shed protective helmets and pads.
Another could be the stigma around the look of safety, with many skaters believing that protective gear is lame or “unfashionable.”
In the age of self-expression, a poll conducted by the National Safety Council determined that people struggle with the perception of safety being “uncool,” even in high-risk conditions.
Given the danger of learning new tricks, iCamp student Damon Bennett said safety gear is essential, especially for beginners. “If you do skateboard, make sure you have a helmet and some like pads if you’re just starting out because you will get hurt a lot.”
While the thrill of skating can be exciting, an iCamp student named Kareem – who requested not to share his last name priority should be safety, not fun. “Don’t risk your life just to look cool,” he said.
No matter how uncomfortable or unflattering a pad or helmet may seem, Bennett and other iCampers urge students to choose safety over the momentary thrill.
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