Moms Talk: Are Helmets Enforced at the X-Park?

Benicia is fortunate to have a state-of-the-art skateboard X-park at Community Park. It's a safe place for skateboarding kids, teens and fearless adults to skateboard, hang out with other skaters and spend some physical time outside. It also keeps them from skateboarding in parking lots, sidewalks and other public spaces.

Unlike organized team sports, skateboarding is not supervised. Some people believe that skateboarding has a higher risk level of injuries. The good news is, the skateboard community, much like surfers, they take care of their own. They help each other, learn from each other and watch out for each other.

According to the , there have not been any major injuries at the park. The park was closed down at one point for graffiti, but the skaters have made sure it has not happened again.

Currently, there is a sign at the X-Park that states: "All users must wear a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads at all times.” The rule is enforceable by the Benicia Police department which can write a citation if officers happen to see an infraction.

Obviously, the can not patrol the park all the time, so the X-Park is usually unsupervised. Basically, kids must skate at their own risk.

What can we do the make sure our kids are skateboarding safely?