Go carts are a lot of fun for kids but they can be dangerous if you just turn your kids lose on them without proper instruction and the understanding they are operating a vehicle, albeit not a car or truck, but a vehicle none the less and they need to observe some basic common sense and safety rules to insure they and everyone around them has a great time.
First of all, make sure you and your kids know your go cart, take a little time and read the owners manual and get familiar with the operation of your cart.
Next, before you let your kids get on a go cart, make sure they are wearing an approved helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Don't use an old helmet. A helmet is good for one impact only. If you have a helmet that has been handed down or might have been dropped from a good height, err on the side of caution and get your go cart driver a new helmet. Better safe than sorry when it comes to safety equipment.
Clothing should be fitted and not loose. Make sure any long hair is pulled back and better yet, tucked into the collar of your shirt or jacket. Serious injuries can result from lose clothing, shoe laces or long hair getting trapped in the moving parts of a go cart. Your child must be seated before starting engine and keep all covers and shields properly installed.
Your go cart is not made for use on public streets, roads, or highways and should never be used in those situations. Also, know how your go cart handles all terrains. Operating your go cart at too high of a speed on a terrain you are not well versed in and losing control of your cart is a common accident that could be prevented with a little caution.
Go carts can be a lot of fun for your kids if you just teach them to follow a few simple safety rules and always watch out for the other guy. Your kids will have blast on their go carts and be safer drivers to boot!
