Skating by the rules

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Robby Hedrick
  • 75 ABW Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  Every evening after school when the heat of the day has started to cool down, bodies are jumping, twisting and flying through the air at the local skate park here on base. 

These people are perfecting series of tricks, grinds and jumps all in the company of their friends and other skateboarding enthusiasts. 

They are laughing, joking and having an all-around good time. After all, this is what the skate park was intended for. However, most of these skaters are breaking one major rule that is posted on the entrance to the park; they are not wearing any protective equipment. 

This disregard for the rules has some people around Hill Air Force Base a little upset and very concerned. One such person is Col. James Weissmann, 75th Aerospace Medicine Squadron commander. Colonel Weissmann reminds the participants of the rules and regulations every time he sees skaters without the proper attire. 

"I do it because I care about the kids staying healthy," said Colonel Weismann. "Broken arms and forearms heal, but brains don't." 

Protective equipment should be worn at all times during high-risk activities, says Colonel Weissman. Ideally, all of the protective equipment should be worn but Colonel Weissman stresses at least a helmet. 

The use of protective equipment does not completely eliminate injuries, but greatly reduces the impact of the fall said, Colonel Weissmann. Multiple research studies also suggest that almost half of all sports related injuries could have been prevented through the use of proper attire. 

"It only takes one mistake. Injuries happen in an instant," said Colonel Weissmann.
However, some of the regulars at the skate park who skate without safety equipment had differing views on the rules and regulations. The two skaters, who wished to remain anonymous, said the requirement of equipment is there only to protect the Air Force and not the patrons of the park. 

Skater A said that the Air Force allows people to smoke, drink and do other high-risk activities that don't require safety gear. 

"I personally have seen more injuries during league football and basketball games where no equipment is required than I have seen here at the park," said Skater B.
Both of the skaters said that they choose not to wear the equipment because it hinders their movement, it's a distraction, and it's just too hot. 

"I choose not to wear the safety equipment because it prevents me from excelling in the physical activity that I love to do due to a lack of mobility," said Skater A. 

Both skaters agree that individuals should be allowed to choose to wear skating safety gear, but for patrons under the age of 20, it should be mandatory for entrance into the park. 

With some common ground, there should be an effective way to mediate the differences that separate the two groups. Even when enforcement measures are in place there will still be those who will not wear the equipment. 

There is always a viable threat of the park being put on time-out status, or other sanctions imposed until skaters choose to wear the required protective wear. No one wants these sanctions to be put into place or to keep people away from enjoying the park, but safety is paramount. 

By choosing to wear the required protective equipment, skaters can at least be guaranteed a higher degree of safety and ensure the continuation of enjoyment of the park for themselves and others.