[LETTERS to the editor]Skaters: Practice safety on wheels

These days, inline skaters can be spotted everywhere. It is sometimes scary to see those skaters on roads filled with cars, on sidewalks crowded with pedestrians, in narrow alleys in residential areas, subway passages and even on the stairs of pedestrian overpasses.
That’s not all. In department stores, they sometimes startle shoppers by zipping through crowds at high speed. Many inline skaters do not wear proper protective gear, such as a helmet. When accidents happen, not only the skater but also pedestrians and motorists can get seriously hurt.
In my neighborhood, some people practice skating on sidewalks or on the road at night, scaring pedestrians and drivers.
At night, skaters who want to enjoy their wheels should practice in a safe place such as a park or playground. Also, if they go skating after dark, they should wear bright-colored clothing or use a flashlight so they can be seen.
Parents should not let their children skate by themselves. Parents should go along with them to avoid accidents.

by Kim Mi-ra