Muscat – With schools closed for the summer, children across Oman are spending more time outdoors enjoying recreational activities. In recent years, electric scooters and light motorcycles have become increasingly popular among young people. While these activities may be exciting and entertaining, they also pose significant safety risks, particularly when children use these without proper supervision or protective equipment.

Health authorities have warned that the increased use of e-scooters and motorcycles during the summer season has led to a rise in accidents and injuries among children and adolescents. Such incidents can result in serious consequences, including head and spinal injuries, fractures, deep burns, permanent disfigurement, limb amputations and lifelong disabilities that can affect a child’s future and quality of life.

Representatives of the Ministry of Health (MoH), including officials from the Directorate General of Khoula Hospital, stressed that preventing such accidents begins at home. Parents and guardians play a critical role in ensuring the safety of their children by setting clear rules and closely supervising their activities.

The hospital outlined several key safety measures. Children should not be allowed to ride motorcycles or e-scooters on public roads, where traffic conditions can be dangerous and unpredictable.

It is also essential to ensure that children wear helmets and other protective gear whenever they use wheeled recreational devices. It urged parents to supervise and remain present when children are using e-scooters or participating in outdoor activities. In addition, all road safety regulations should be respected, including avoiding excessive speed and reckless behaviour.

Medical professionals emphasise that many of these injuries are preventable through greater awareness, responsible parenting and adherence to safety guidelines. A few moments of precaution can prevent lifelong suffering and tragedy.

As families across Oman enjoy the summer break, health officials are urging everyone to make safety a priority. A joyful holiday should be filled with positive experiences and cherished memories, not avoidable accidents and injuries.