Using "Heely's" on base

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. John W. Hesterman
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  

COMPLAINT:

Could you please inform me of the Base policy regarding "Heelys"? I have been nearly run down on many occasions in the BX, BX-tra and Commissary. I find it quite dangerous, and frankly, lacking in good manners to fly through a public building on skates.

RESPONSE:

Thank you for your concern over the use of "Heelys" and the safety of our children. RAF Lakenheath does not currently have an official policy on the use of Heelys. We understand there is a safety concern with these shoes, and as with any safety issue where children are involved, the resolution begins with parental supervision.

It is expected and required that all parents/guardians watch over their children, ensuring they are not unnecessarily endangering themselves and/or others. While I strongly recommend parents who allow their children to wear Heelys have them retract the wheels before entering base facilities like the BX or commissary, parents must, at a minimum, take special care to supervise their children more closely to mitigate the risk of a safety incident.